CRITIQUE-STUDIES IN CONTEMPORARY FICTION
Scope & Guideline
Fostering Dialogue in Contemporary Literary Theory
Introduction
Aims and Scopes
- Interrogation of Identity and Subjectivity:
The journal frequently addresses themes of identity, including gender, race, and sexuality, examining how these constructs influence and shape narrative perspectives and character development. - Exploration of Narrative Techniques:
A significant focus is placed on innovative narrative forms and techniques, such as metafiction, non-linear storytelling, and second-person narration, which challenge traditional literary conventions. - Cultural and Historical Contextualization:
Papers often situate literary works within broader cultural, historical, and political contexts, analyzing how contemporary issues, such as migration, capitalism, and environmental crises, are reflected in literature. - Theoretical Engagement with Literary Criticism:
The journal emphasizes theoretical frameworks, drawing from postcolonial theory, feminism, queer theory, and eco-criticism to deepen the understanding of texts and their implications. - Focus on Global Literature:
There is a consistent interest in global literature, particularly works from marginalized voices, allowing for a diverse range of perspectives and experiences to be represented.
Trending and Emerging
- Migration and Diaspora Narratives:
There is an increasing focus on themes of migration, diaspora, and transnational identities, reflecting contemporary global movements and their impact on personal and collective narratives. - Ecocriticism and Environmental Literature:
Emerging themes of ecocriticism highlight the intersection of literature and environmental issues, exploring how narratives engage with climate change and ecological crises. - Technological Influence on Literature:
An uptick in discussions surrounding the influence of technology on literature and narrative form, including digital storytelling and the impact of social media on contemporary narratives. - Interdisciplinary Approaches:
The journal is increasingly embracing interdisciplinary approaches, combining literary studies with insights from psychology, sociology, and political science to enrich literary analysis. - Revisiting Trauma and Memory:
There is a growing trend of revisiting themes of trauma and memory, specifically how these concepts are represented in contemporary literature, reflecting societal concerns over collective and personal histories.
Declining or Waning
- Traditional Literary Forms:
There is a noticeable decline in discussions centered on traditional narrative forms and canonical texts, as the journal increasingly favors contemporary and experimental literature. - Romanticism and Sentimentalism:
Themes associated with romanticism and sentimental narratives have become less prevalent, reflecting a shift towards more critical and often cynical examinations of human experience. - Focus on National Literature:
The journal has moved away from a strong emphasis on national literature, with fewer papers dedicated to exploring the literary contributions of specific nations, favoring a more global or transnational perspective. - Historical Narratives:
Papers that focus exclusively on historical narratives or historical fiction without a contemporary critique are appearing less frequently, suggesting a shift towards literature that engages with current issues. - Traditional Genre Boundaries:
There is a waning interest in adhering to traditional genre boundaries, with fewer works addressing specific genres like romance or mystery in conventional ways.
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