UNIQUE FEATURES OF THE NOVEL GENRE IN THE WORK OF ABULRAZAK GURNAH
Abstract
This article explores the distinctive features of the novel genre as manifested in the literary works of Abulrazak Gurnah, a renowned Tanzanian-born novelist. Gurnah’s novels are characterized by their intricate narrative structures, rich historical contexts, and nuanced exploration of themes such as migration, displacement, and cultural identity. Through a detailed analysis of Gurnah’s novels, including “Paradise,” “By the Sea,” and “Desertion,” this article aims to shed light on how the author employs the novel genre to convey complex human experiences and societal issues. By examining Gurnah’s unique narrative techniques, use of language, and portrayal of characters, this article seeks to provide insights into the distinctiveness of his contributions to the novel genre within the broader context of postcolonial literature.
Keywords
Abulrazak Gurnah, novel genre, narrative structures, historical contexts, migration, displacement, cultural identity, postcolonial literature, unique features, literary analysis.
References
- Gurnah. Abdulrazak. *Paradise*. New York: Random House, 1994.
- Gurnah. Abdulrazak. *By the Sea*. New York: Bloomsbury, 2001.
- Lindfors. Bernth, ed. *Critical Perspectives on Abdulrazak Gurnah*. Trenton: Africa World Press, 2002.
- Gikandi. Simon. “Abdulrazak Gurnah’s World of Islands.” *Research in African Literatures*, vol. 39, no. 4, 2008, pp. 126-138.
- Schwarz. Bill. “Abdulrazak Gurnah: Writing Africa in England.” *The Novel: A Biography*, edited by Michael Schmidt, Belknap Press, 2014, pp. 1109-1112.