Writing Black Scotland: Race, Nation and the Devolution of Black Britain

Writing Black Scotland explores race and racism in devolutionary Scottish literature, emphasizing the critical significance of blackness and advocating for black politics and a literary registration of race and racism.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 18 August 2022
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

Rewritten text:
Writing Black Scotland delves into the intricate examination of race and racism within devolutionary Scottish literature, with a particular emphasis on the profound significance of blackness. Spanning from the 1970s to the early 2000s, a historical era characterized by post-imperial adjustment, the book explores the multifaceted portrayal of blackness in Scottish writing. Challenging the prevailing notion of a unified Britishness prevalent in black British criticism, Jackson advocates for the vital role of black politics in Scottish literature, urging for a literary recognition of race and racism that serves as a catalyst for meaningful negotiations in the pursuit of national Scotland, both prior to and following the year 1997.

Introduction:
Writing Black Scotland offers a comprehensive exploration of the interplay between race and racism in devolutionary Scottish literature. By examining the critical significance of blackness, the book sheds light on the diverse representations of black characters and themes within Scottish writing. The chosen period, spanning from the 1970s to the early 2000s, represents a significant era characterized by post-imperial adjustment, shaping the cultural landscape and influencing the narratives produced during this time.

Blackness in Scottish Writing:
The book delves into the complex portrayal of blackness in Scottish writing, spanning a period of historical significance. It examines how blackness is represented, interpreted, and negotiated within the literary landscape, highlighting the diverse perspectives and experiences of black individuals and communities. The authors analyze how blackness is intertwined with broader societal issues, such as identity, belonging, and cultural heritage, and how it contributes to the shaping of Scottish identity.

Challenging Britishness:
One of the central themes of Writing Black Scotland is the critique of a unifying Britishness at work in black British criticism. The authors argue that this notion of Britishness fails to adequately capture the diverse experiences and perspectives of black individuals and communities. They advocate for a recognition of black politics and a literary registration of race and racism that signals a necessary negotiation for national Scotland. The book suggests that Scottish writing can play a vital role in challenging and reimagining the concept of Britishness, promoting a more inclusive and diverse national identity.

Significance of Black Politics:
Jackson emphasizes the importance of black politics in Scottish literature. He argues that black writers have a unique perspective to offer, particularly in addressing the historical and contemporary challenges faced by black communities in Scotland. By incorporating black politics into their work, Scottish writers can contribute to the broader discourse on race and racism, challenging stereotypes and promoting understanding.

Literary Registration of Race and Racism:
The book advocates for a literary registration of race and racism that goes beyond mere representation. It suggests that Scottish literature can serve as a platform for exploring the complexities of race and racism, fostering empathy and understanding among readers. By acknowledging the existence of race and racism, Scottish writers can contribute to the ongoing dialogue about these issues and promote positive change.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, Writing Black Scotland is a groundbreaking work that offers a profound exploration of race and racism in devolutionary Scottish literature. By challenging the notion of a unified Britishness and advocating for the importance of black politics, the book contributes to the ongoing dialogue about identity, diversity, and social justice. It encourages readers to engage with the complexities of race and racism and promotes a more inclusive and diverse Scotland.

Weight: 340g
Dimension: 155 x 234 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474461450