Palestinian literature can be formally denoted to be a sub-genre of Arabian literature. However, the national character is strong. Both the novel and the poetic forms enjoy great popularity in Palestine. Traditionally, Literature of Palestine shared the aesthetic ideals and modes of the mainstream Arab literature. However, presently the political scenario of Palestine has redefined the very nature of Palestinian literature.
Following widespread diaspora brought about by the Israelite occupation of the country in 1948, Palestinian literature has taken on a more political color. However, it should be remembered that the response of Palestinian literature of the phenomenon of exodus and diaspora is varied and cannot be homogenised in a single category. There are works that highlight isolation, longing and migratory anxieties, whereas others take a more polemical and confrontational attitude.
At present, Palestine literature has undergone a redefinition. It is no more the literature produced in Palestine, but the literature of Palestinians settled across the world. The entire oeuvre of Palestinian literature can be further subdivided into literary works produced inside Palestine and those produced outside it. Together, they form an extremely acclaimed and popular body of world literature. The language may not necessarily be Palestinian or Arabic but can be English as well. Salma Khadra jayyusi and Liana Badr are extremely significant names in the works of Palestinian fiction. Both maintain a strong political commitment in their works.
However, there is another branch of
Palestinian literature that disagrees to this kind of overt political commitment. Poetry in particular has seen a return to the pre-Islamic forms in the recent years in a bid to re-invigorate the national character. However, there are highly charged political poetry as well that form an integral part of Palestinian literature.
For more information on Palestinian literature, click on the following link:
