Writing in Limbo

Simon Gikandi explores the complex relationship between Caribbean and postcolonial literature with modernism, highlighting how writers like George Lamming and Michelle Cliff confront and reinterpret their European-influenced histories in Writing in Limbo.

In Writing in Limbo, Simon Gikandi explores the complex relationship between Caribbean literature and the broader themes of modernism and modernity. He argues that Caribbean writers grapple with a historical legacy heavily influenced by European colonialism, which complicates their attempts to carve out a distinct literary identity. This struggle reflects an ongoing negotiation where writers confront and reinterpret the narratives imposed by their colonial past.

Gikandi draws on contemporary deconstructionist theory to analyze the works of notable Caribbean authors such as George Lamming, Samuel Selvon, Alejo Carpentier, C. L. R. James, Paule Marshall, Merle Hodge, Zee Edgell, and Michelle Cliff. Through their writings, these authors engage with European modernism, seeking to challenge and rewrite the dominant narratives that have historically marginalized Caribbean voices. This engagement is characterized by a desire to reclaim their history and assert their cultural identity in a postcolonial context.

Ultimately, Writing in Limbo presents a thoughtful examination of how Caribbean literature navigates the tensions between tradition and modernity. Gikandi's analysis highlights the innovative ways in which these writers confront their colonial heritage while striving to create a literary space that reflects their unique experiences. The book serves as a significant contribution to the discourse on postcolonial literature, offering insights into the intricate dynamics of identity, culture, and the act of writing in a liminal space.