Sep 20, 2008: During the past two decades, it has become increasingly difficult to maintain a singular narrative of the literary history of the Armenian diaspora. Armenia's independence and the formation of a state that provides an official home for a national literature, the shifting profile of diasporan communities where the Eastern and Western forms of the language (with their multiple dialects) coexist, and the ever-increasing leverage of English as a "global" language not only shatter any notion of singularity in the diaspora, but raise questions about the possibility of continuity for Armenian-language production outside of Armenia. In other words, it is truly an exciting time for Armenian literature. I do not say this with hints of cynicism or sarcasm, rather with the conviction that periods of ambiguity can be looked upon as productive moments, for they require an introspective gaze. This process of inward-looking and self-critical examination can be realized only through dynamic discourse and dialogue. more...
International
