Bangladeshi Literature in English: A Tenacious Thrice-Born Tradition.
Bangladeshi literature in English (BLE) boasts a unique literary tradition often understood as a thrice-born tradition, evolving through three historical phases that parallel the region’s political transformations.
The geographical territory now known as Bangladesh has witnessed political rebirths and renamings during the British colonial period (Bengal/East Bengal, 1905–11), the Pakistani phase (East Pakistan, 1947–71), and its emergence as an independent nation (Bangladesh, since 1971).
To grasp the development of BLE, it is essential to delve into its colonial origins, examine English literature during the Pakistani period, and closely examine the challenges and accomplishments post-independence.
Colonial Roots and Pre-Independence English Writings
The foundation of Bangladeshi writing in English finds its roots in pre-independence undivided Bengal, a historical period marked by the ascendancy of English learning in Calcutta, the bustling capital of British India.
During the late 18th century and early 19th century, as English became a strong force in the intellectual landscape, a flourishing enthusiasm for literature in this language emerged.
Calcutta, as a hub of colonial influence, witnessed a surge in the adoption of English as a means of expression and communication.
Raja Ram Mohan Roy, recognised as the father of the Bengali Renaissance, played a pivotal role in fostering this linguistic evolution. His efforts were instrumental in laying the groundwork for the exploration of English as a medium for creative expression and intellectual discourse.
This period saw the birth of a literary trend, with Kashiprashad Ghose’s ‘The Shair and Other Poems,’ published five years before Macaulay’s influential Minute on Indian Education in 1835.
The cultural dynamism of pre-independence undivided Bengal, with its vibrant mix of colonial influences and indigenous intellectual pursuits, set the stage for the emergence of English literature as a significant part of the region’s literary landscape.
This era laid the groundwork for subsequent literary luminaries like Michael Madhusudan Dutt, known as the father of blank verse in Bengali poetry, who would contribute significantly to the development of Bangladeshi literature in English.
The Language Movement and Late Emergence of Anglophone Writers
Bangladesh’s transformative journey to independence in 1971 was profoundly shaped by the language movement of 1952, a pivotal chapter in the nation’s history.
This movement centred around the preservation and recognition of the Bengali language, became a catalyst for broader aspirations of autonomy and ultimately led to the establishment of Bangladesh as an independent nation.
While the pre-1947 period witnessed English language writers in Bengal producing noteworthy literary works, the critical turning point for Bangladeshi literature in English is often associated with the spatial boundary drawn in 1971. This delineation marked the beginning of a distinct literary identity for Bangladesh, emphasising the challenges and aspirations specific to the newly formed nation-state.
However, there was a delayed emergence of Anglophone writers within the new nation. This can be attributed to the political turmoil and identity shifts that unfolded over the years. The struggle for linguistic and cultural recognition during the language movement laid the groundwork for a renewed sense of national identity, influencing the literary landscape.
Writers, grappling with the complexities of post-independence Bangladesh, began to articulate their experiences and perspectives in English, contributing to the unique voice of Bangladeshi literature in English.
The Bangladeshi diaspora has also played a crucial role in shaping Bangladeshi literature in English. This diasporic influence brought an added layer of complexity and richness to the literary tradition.
Grappling with the nuances of identity, belonging, and cultural hybridity, brought forth a unique set of themes and narratives. Their works often reflect the tension between preserving cultural roots and navigating the complexities of assimilation in foreign lands.
In the realm of contemporary Bangladeshi literature in English, there are many great works that showcase the diverse voices and narratives emanating from this culturally rich and historically nuanced region. These literary gems not only capture the intricacies of modern Bangladeshi life but also delve into universal themes.
From Tahmima Anam’s ‘A Golden Age’ which emerges as a poignant examination of historical turmoil, to Monica Ali’s Booker Prize-shortlisted ‘Brick Lane’ and Fayeza Hasanat’s 2018 release, ‘The Bird Catcher and Other Stories,’ provide diverse narratives delving into themes of gender expectations, questions of identity and belonging. This vibrant array of literary voices collectively captures the multifaceted culture and historical intricacies of Bangladesh.
Bangladeshi literature in English embodies a thrice-born tradition, navigating the political, linguistic, and cultural transformations of the region. From its colonial roots to the emergence of a nation, BLE has traversed a rich historical landscape. Understanding the continuity and challenges of this literary tradition allows us to appreciate the resilience and evolution of Bangladeshi literature in the face of political upheavals and cultural shifts.
