English Literature by Muslims

Introduction: English Literature by Muslims

English literature by Muslims encompasses a diverse body of work produced by writers who identify as Muslim and express their cultural and religious identities in the English language.

These literary works explore themes ranging from faith and spirituality to cultural identity, diaspora, and the complexities of living in a globalized world. Muslim authors, hailing from various regions, contribute to this literature, often reflecting the rich mosaic of Islamic traditions and global perspectives.

They may navigate linguistic hybridity, engaging with multiple languages and cultures in their writing. The literature serves as a platform for cultural exchange, promoting dialogue and mutual understanding while addressing universal themes and contemporary issues.

English Literature by Muslims: Notable Authors, Works, and Arguments/Themes

Writer and Origin	Notable Works	Themes and Arguments
Mohsin Hamid (Pakistani)	– The Reluctant Fundamentalist: Explores the experiences of Muslims in a globalized world, focusing on identity, migration, and the impact of Western influence on Muslim societies. – Exit West: Examines themes of migration and displacement in a world of conflict. – Moth Smoke: Addresses societal and moral dilemmas in modern Pakistan.	Identity, migration, the influence of the West on Muslim societies.
Leila Aboulela (Sudanese)	– The Translator: Deals with the intersection of faith and culture, exploring the immigrant experience and the complexities of identity among Muslims in the West.   – Minaret: Focuses on the life of a Muslim woman in the West and her spiritual journey.   – The Kindness of Enemies: Explores the impact of history and faith on the present.	Faith, culture, immigrant experience, Muslim identity in Western contexts.
Tariq Ali (Pakistani)	– Shadows of the Pomegranate Tree: Offers a historical perspective on the Muslim world during the time of the Ottoman Empire. – The Clash of Fundamentalisms: Analyzes the impact of fundamentalism and imperialism. – The Book of Saladin: Focuses on the life of Saladin and its relevance to modern times.	Imperialism, post-colonialism, historical analysis of the Muslim world.
Ahdaf Soueif (Egyptian)	– The Map of Love: Explores personal relationships and political upheaval, especially in the context of the Arab world. – In the Eye of the Sun: Reflects on the experiences of an Egyptian woman and her journey.   – Cairo: My City, Our Revolution: Chronicles the Egyptian revolution from a personal perspective.	Personal relationships, political upheaval, the Arab world’s context.
Hanif Kureishi (British-Pakistani)	– The Buddha of Suburbia: Addresses issues of identity and multiculturalism in a suburban setting. – My Beautiful Laundrette: Explores themes of race, sexuality, and cultural diversity. – The Black Album: Analyzes issues of identity and radicalism among young British Muslims.	Identity, multiculturalism, challenges faced by second-generation immigrants in the UK.
Randa Abdel-Fattah (Australian-Palestinian)	– Does My Head Look Big in This?: Discusses identity and prejudice faced by a Muslim-Australian teenager.   – Ten Things I Hate About Me: Explores themes of identity and cultural challenges for a Muslim teenager in Australia. – The Lines We Cross: Addresses issues of cultural and religious intolerance.	Identity, prejudice, the experiences of young Muslims in Australia.
Ayad Akhtar (Pakistani-American)	– Disgraced: Examines themes of identity, religion, and race in contemporary America. – American Dervish: Explores the challenges of assimilation and faith in a Muslim-American context. – The Invisible Hand: Focuses on themes of finance, power, and survival.	Identity, assimilation, the challenges of being Muslim in the West.

English Literature by Muslims: Representative Works

Work	Feature
The Reluctant Fundamentalist by Mohsin Hamid	This novel tells the story of Changez, a Pakistani man living in the United States who undergoes a transformation in the aftermath of 9/11. It explores themes of identity, cultural displacement, and the impact of Western perceptions of Muslims.
Brick Lane by Monica Ali	The novel follows the life of Nazneen, a Bangladeshi woman who immigrates to the UK. It examines themes of identity, tradition, and the clash of cultures in a multicultural society.
The Map of Love by Ahdaf Soueif	Soueif’s novel intertwines a contemporary love story with historical narratives, offering a complex portrayal of Egypt’s history. It explores themes of love, politics, and the search for identity in the context of Egyptian society.
In the Country of Men by Hisham Matar	Matar’s novel is set in Libya during the Qaddafi regime. It delves into themes of oppression, family, and the difficulties of living under a totalitarian government.
The Architect’s Apprentice by Elif Shafak	Shafak’s work is a historical novel that takes place in the Ottoman Empire. It combines history, architecture, and personal narratives to explore themes of cultural exchange and artistic innovation.
The Invisible Hand by Ayad Akhtar	This play by Akhtar explores the intersection of finance, power, and personal values. It offers a critical perspective on Wall Street and global capitalism, highlighting the complexities of being Muslim in the West.
The Wandering Falcon by Jamil Ahmad	Ahmad’s book is a collection of interlinked stories set in the tribal areas of Pakistan and Afghanistan. It offers an insight into the lives, customs, and challenges faced by indigenous people in the region.
Does My Head Look Big in This? by Randa Abdel-Fattah	This young adult novel deals with the experiences of an Australian-Muslim teenager who decides to wear the hijab full-time. It addresses themes of identity, prejudice, and the challenges faced by Muslim youth in Western society.
The Way Things Were by Aatish Taseer	Taseer’s novel explores the themes of history, identity, and cultural change in the context of India and its rich tapestry of traditions.
The Girl Who Wrote in Silk by Kelli Estes	While the author is not Muslim, the book revolves around the historical experiences of Chinese immigrants to the United States. It highlights themes of cultural preservation, discrimination, and the power of storytelling.

Themes in English Literature by Muslims

1. Identity and Belonging: Many works explore the challenges of defining one’s identity in a multicultural or diaspora context, the tension between cultural heritage and assimilation, and the search for a sense of belonging.
2. Cultural Clash and Integration: Authors often address the clash of cultures, values, and traditions when individuals or communities migrate to Western countries. They also explore the process of cultural integration and adaptation.
3. Religion and Faith: Themes related to Islam, faith, spirituality, and the practice of religion are prevalent. Authors examine the role of religion in personal identity, community life, and the broader society.
4. Migration and Displacement: Many works revolve around the experiences of migration, forced displacement, or the challenges faced by immigrants and refugees, exploring the psychological and social impact of these experiences.
5. Colonialism and Post-colonialism: Authors often delve into the historical and contemporary consequences of colonialism and imperialism in Muslim-majority countries, and the struggle for independence and sovereignty.
6. Globalization and Modernity: Contemporary Muslim authors frequently address the effects of globalization, modernity, and technology on Muslim societies, raising questions about tradition, culture, and identity.
7. Stereotypes and Prejudice: Literature by Muslim authors often challenges stereotypes and prejudices held against Muslims, aiming to humanize and provide a more accurate representation of Muslim individuals and communities.
8. Social and Political Issues: Works may address pressing social and political concerns, such as authoritarian regimes, oppression, human rights, and social justice, often from a Muslim perspective.
9. Family and Relationships: Family dynamics, personal relationships, and generational conflicts are recurring themes. They explore the complexity of familial ties, love, and the interplay of tradition and modernity.
10. History and Heritage: Many authors draw upon the rich history and cultural heritage of Muslim-majority countries, incorporating historical narratives and legends into their works.
11. War and Conflict: Literature often reflects the impact of war, conflict, and political instability on individuals and communities, emphasizing the need for peace and reconciliation.
12. Personal Transformation: Stories of personal growth, transformation, and self-discovery are common themes, highlighting the resilience and adaptability of individuals in the face of challenges.

Suggested Readings

1. Aboulela, Leila. The Translator. 2006.
2. Abdel-Fattah, Randa. Does My Head Look Big in This?. 2005.
3. Akhtar, Ayad. Disgraced. 2012.
4. Ali, Monica. Brick Lane. 2003.
5. Ali, Tariq. Shadows of the Pomegranate Tree. 1992.
6. Ali, Tariq. The Clash of Fundamentalisms: Crusades, Jihads and Modernity. 2002.
7. Ali, Tariq. The Book of Saladin. 1998.
8. Estes, Kelli. The Girl Who Wrote in Silk. 2015.
9. Hamid, Mohsin. The Reluctant Fundamentalist. 2007.
10. Hamid, Mohsin. Moth Smoke. 2000.
11. Hamid, Mohsin. Exit West. 2017.
12. Matar, Hisham. In the Country of Men. 2006.
13. Shafak, Elif. The Architect’s Apprentice. 2014.
14. Soueif, Ahdaf. The Map of Love. 1999.