Networked Poetics: The Digital Turn in Southern African Poetry

Poetry in the twenty-first century is produced across digital networks, shaped by local communities, and evaluated on a global scale. Susanna L. Sacks' book "Networked Poetics" explores the southern African poetry scene in Malawi, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, illustrating how digital media publication influences contemporary poetry's form and challenges elite processes of valuation.

Format: Hardback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 29 February 2024
Publisher: University of Massachusetts Press

In the twenty-first century, poetry emerges as a dynamic and multifaceted phenomenon, simultaneously transcending national boundaries and deeply rooted in local communities. It thrives within the digital networks that connect people across the globe, shaped by the diverse voices and experiences of these communities. This poetic landscape is not limited to traditional publishing channels; it can begin on social media platforms, where a captivating video of a poet goes viral, attracting international attention without the constraints of conventional publishing routes.

In her book "Networked Poetics," Susanna L. Sacks takes readers on a captivating journey into the vibrant poetry scenes of southern Africa, encompassing Malawi, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. Through meticulous ethnographic observation and comprehensive literary analysis, Sacks unveils how contemporary poetry is molded and shaped by the influence of digital media publication.

Sacks demonstrates that as more artists in Africa gain access to wider audiences through online platforms, the poetic form undergoes a profound transformation. It adapts to the aesthetic norms of urgency, immediacy, and populism prevalent in social media, reflecting the changing dynamics of contemporary communication. These shifts challenge the established processes of valuation within the literary world, prompting institutions such as literary prizes, festivals, and curricula to adapt and embrace the digital era.

The book explores the ways in which digital media publication has democratized the dissemination of poetry, enabling artists to bypass traditional gatekeepers and reach a global audience. It highlights the impact of social media on the formation of poetic communities, where poets connect, share ideas, and engage in dialogue, transcending geographical boundaries. Sacks also delves into the challenges and opportunities that arise from the digital turn, such as the need for new modes of evaluation, the preservation of cultural heritage, and the potential for artistic innovation.

Through her insightful analysis, Sacks sheds light on the complex interplay between local communities, digital networks, and global cultural dynamics. "Networked Poetics" serves as a valuable resource for scholars, artists, and enthusiasts alike, offering a comprehensive understanding of the evolving landscape of poetry in the twenty-first century. It encourages us to reimagine the boundaries of poetic expression and embrace the transformative power of technology in shaping the future of literature.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781625347688