Temporalities in/of Crises in Anglophone Literatures

Offering pluralised and context-sensitives approaches to temporalities in and of crises, this volume explores how literature’s engagement with crises suggests both the need for and possibility of rethinking ‘time'.

Format: Hardback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 08 August 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Literary works hold immense significance in shaping and conceptualizing temporalities, particularly during times of crises that challenge established temporal patterns and routines. During such crises, the boundaries between past, present, and future tend to blur, leading to temporal disjunction and rupture. This volume aims to explore the rich tapestry of temporalities in and of crises through a pluralized and context-sensitive lens. By examining the ways in which literature engages with crises, it seeks to shed light on the urgent need for and potential of rethinking our conceptions of time.

The volume is dedicated to exploring the potential of specific genres to transcend the temporalities of crises and foster a sense of futurity. Each essay in the volume is rooted in contemporary theories of temporality and literary form, drawing upon novel advancements in ecocriticism, queer studies, affect theory, and postcolonial studies. The chapters cover a wide range of examples from various literary genres, showcasing the profound knowledge of literature in navigating temporalities in and of crises.

In the first chapter, "The Temporalities of Crisis: An Introduction," the editors provide a comprehensive overview of the volume's themes and objectives. They argue that crises serve as powerful catalysts for reimagining temporalities, as they disrupt the linear progression of time and force us to confront the complexities and uncertainties of the present moment. The chapter highlights the role of literature in capturing the temporal dimensions of crises, from the immediate effects of disaster to the long-term consequences of trauma and displacement.

The following chapter, "Literary Representations of Crisis and Time," explores the ways in which literature portrays and interprets crises from a temporal perspective. The authors analyze various literary works, including novels, plays, poetry, and memoirs, to examine how they capture the temporal dynamics of crises, such as the rush of time, the feeling of stasis, and the disruption of routine. They also discuss the ways in which literature can offer insights into the complexities of time perception and the ways in which individuals and communities respond to temporal disruptions.

In the third chapter, "Genre and Temporalities in Crisis," the editors examine the role of specific genres in shaping temporalities in and of crises. They explore the ways in which genres such as fiction, poetry, drama, and non-fiction can offer different perspectives on temporal experiences and provide unique ways of understanding and navigating crises. The chapter highlights the ways in which genres can challenge conventional notions of time and offer alternative frameworks for understanding the temporal dimensions of crises.

The fourth chapter, "Contextualizing Temporalities in Crisis," explores the importance of contextualizing temporalities in and of crises. The authors argue that crises are not isolated events but are deeply intertwined with social, political, and environmental factors that shape our understanding of time. They discuss the ways in which literature can provide a lens for examining the intersections of temporalities and other forms of oppression, such as race, gender, and class. The chapter also highlights the ways in which literature can offer insights into the processes of recovery and rebuilding after crises.

The fifth chapter, "Futures and Temporalities in Crisis," examines the role of temporalities in shaping our perceptions of the future. The authors argue that crises can disrupt our sense of predictability and stability, leading to a sense of uncertainty and anxiety about the future. They discuss the ways in which literature can offer alternative visions of the future and provide tools for navigating the complexities of the present moment. The chapter also highlights the ways in which literature can contribute to the construction of resilient and sustainable futures.

In the final chapter, "Conclusion: Reimagining Temporalities in and of Crisis," the editors reflect on the insights and implications of the volume. They argue that the study of temporalities in and of crises offers a valuable opportunity to reimagine our conceptions of time and to develop more nuanced and empathetic approaches to navigating the challenges of the present moment. The chapter highlights the ways in which literature can foster a sense of hope and resilience in the face of crises and contribute to the building of more just and sustainable societies.

In conclusion, this volume offers a rich and interdisciplinary exploration of the temporalities in and of crises. Through a pluralized and context-sensitive lens, it sheds light on the urgent need for rethinking our conceptions of time and provides valuable insights into the ways in which literature can contribute to this reimagining. The chapters cover a wide range of examples from various literary genres, showcasing the profound knowledge of literature in navigating temporalities in and of crises. By engaging with the insights and perspectives offered by this volume, we can develop a deeper understanding of the complexities of time and work towards building more resilient and sustainable societies.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032390307