New Selves. Issues of Identity in the Caribbean Canadian Poetry of Claire Harris and Olive Senior

Seminar Paper , 2010 , 20 Pages , Grade: 2,0

American Studies - Literature

The aim of the following paper is an analysis of selected poems of Claire Harris and Olive Senior in regard of the theme that connects the poetic work of these two women writers – identity. At first glance, it might come as quite a surprise to some readers that the literary artist Harris and Senior share a connection in their poetical exploration of themes. However after having a short glance, a commonalty between them will became apparent. Due to the subject the essay is informed by concepts of feminism, post-colonialism and cultural studies in order to depict the different ways in which identity is addressed in their work.

The aim of the following paper is an analyses of selected poems of Claire Harris and Olive Senior in regard of the theme that connects the poetic work of these two women writers – identity. At first glance, it might come as quite a surprise to some readers that the literary artist Harris and Senior share a connection in their poetical exploration of themes. However after having a short glance, a commonalty between them will became apparent. Due to the subject the essay is informed by concepts of feminism, post-colonialism and cultural studies in order to depict the different ways in which identity is addressed in their work.

Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)

• Introduction
• Why is identity an issue in Canadian Caribbean women poetry?
• Perceptions of gender
• History of Colonialism
• Exile
• Conclusion
• Works Cited

Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)

This paper examines the theme of identity in the poetry of Claire Harris and Olive Senior, two Caribbean Canadian women writers. It utilizes concepts from feminism, post-colonialism, and cultural studies to explore the different ways in which identity is addressed in their work.

• The impact of gender on the formation of cultural identity in Caribbean society.
• The influence of colonial history on the post-colonial subject.
• The question of home and exile, or more generally speaking of belonging.
• The role of women in Caribbean society and their ability to voice their opinions.
• The intersection of race, gender, and colonialism in the construction of identity.

Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)

The introduction sets the context for the paper by discussing the revival of Caribbean literature in Canada and the importance of exploring the diverse experiences of Caribbean Canadian women writers. The paper's focus on identity is established, emphasizing the shared themes and unique perspectives of Harris and Senior.

The second chapter delves into the question of why identity is a central issue in the poetry of Caribbean Canadian women. It explores the influence of gender on individual identity, drawing on the works of both Harris and Senior. The chapter examines how gender roles shape the experiences of women in Caribbean society, using the poems "Birdshooting Season" by Senior and "Child This Is the Gospel on Bakes" by Harris as examples.

Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)

The primary keywords and focus topics of this text include Caribbean Canadian literature, women's poetry, identity, gender, colonialism, post-colonialism, cultural studies, diaspora, and belonging.

• College: University of Constance
• Grade: 2,0
• Publication Year: 2010
• Pages: 20
• Catalog Number: V343106
• ISBN (eBook): 9783668330627
• ISBN (Book): 9783668330634
• Language: English
• Tags: selves, issues, identity, caribbean, canadian, poetry, claire, harris, olive, senior