Anthology of Modern Palestinian Literature

This unique and definitive anthology offers the widest selection ever compiled of modern Palestinian literature. Presented here are translations of poems, stories, and excerpts from novels, as well as works by Palestinian poets who write in English. Also included are personal narratives by Palestinian writers depicting the varied aspects of Palestinian life from the turn of the century to the present. These images capture life in Arab Palestine before 1948 and during the wars of 1948 and 1967, and vivify the ensuing calamities experienced by Palestinians in the diaspora and under occupation. Many generations of Palestinian writers are represented-those still living in their own land, either in Israel proper or on the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, and those who write as exiles from the perspective of the Palestinian diaspora. Biographical sketches introduce the authors, and a comprehensive chronology of modern Palestinian history provides background for some of the events and places referred to in the selections. The introduction provides a concise but thorough critical history of Palestinian literature during the twentieth century.

This anthology offers a wide selection of modern Palestinian literature including translations of poems, stories and the excerpts of novels. Also included are personal narratives by Palestinian writers depicting aspects of Palestinian life from the turn of the century to the present.Jayyusi presents in English translation a Palestinian world view characterized by intensity, paradox, aspiration, and eloquence. Anthology of Modern Palestinian Literature will certainly become indispensable to anyone with a serious interest in contemporary Arab culture.