Muslim English Literature

Introduction: Muslim English Literature

Muslim English Literature refers to the literary works written in the English language by Muslim writers around the world. It encompasses a broad range of literary genres, including fiction, poetry, drama, and non-fictional prose. Muslim English Literature is a rapidly growing field that reflects the diversity of the Muslim world and its diaspora.

It provides a platform for Muslim writers to share their experiences, perspectives, and insights with a global audience, and to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about Islam and Muslims.

Muslim English Literature is characterized by a distinctive blend of Islamic and Western literary traditions, as well as the cultural and linguistic influences of the regions where the writers reside or have roots.

Key Factors Behind Muslim English Literature

1. Colonialism: British colonial rule in various parts of the Muslim-majority world, including South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, led to the introduction of English as a medium of instruction and administration. This exposure to English language and literature planted the seeds for future literary works in English.
2. Educational Institutions: The establishment of English-medium schools and universities by colonial powers provided access to English education for a select segment of the Muslim population. This education nurtured the development of English language skills among Muslim scholars and writers.
3. Literary Adaptation: As English gained prominence, Muslim writers and intellectuals began to adapt their cultural and literary traditions to the English language. They sought to convey their religious, cultural, and sociopolitical perspectives to a wider, often Western, audience.
4. Social and Political Change: The colonial period brought about significant social and political changes, contributing to the need for new literary forms and discourses. Muslim writers used English to engage with these transformative experiences and to advocate for their communities.
5. Post-Independence Period: After gaining independence from colonial rule, many countries with Muslim-majority populations continued to use English as a language of governance, education, and communication. This further solidified the position of English in literary and cultural expression.
6. Diaspora Communities: The Muslim diaspora in Western countries, including the United Kingdom and the United States, has also played a significant role in the development of Muslim English literature. Immigrant and second-generation Muslim writers use English to explore their identities and experiences in the West.

The works of early Muslim English writers, such as Mulk Raj Anand, Ahmad Ali, and Hanif Kureishi, contributed to the establishment of this literary tradition. Over time, Muslim writers have continued to produce literature that reflects their experiences, identities, and perspectives within the English language. Today, Muslim English literature is a diverse and dynamic field, encompassing various genres and voices that convey the rich tapestry of Muslim cultures and societies in the global context.

Major Features of Muslim English Literature

Feature	Explanation	Example
Multilingual and Multicultural Influences	Muslim English literature by Muslim writers incorporates various languages, reflecting the diverse cultures and linguistic influences of Muslim communities.	In the novel The Golden House by Salman Rushdie, linguistic and cultural diversity plays a central role in the characters’ lives.
Diverse Themes and Topics	This literature explores a wide range of themes, from religious exploration to issues of identity and social justice.	In The Taqwacores by Michael Muhammad Knight, the novel delves into the punk subculture and the intersection of faith and rebellion.
Religious and Spiritual Exploration	Muslim writers delve into themes of faith, spirituality, and religious identity, often portraying the spiritual journeys of characters.	In The Forty Rules of Love by Elif Shafak, the novel explores Rumi’s teachings and spiritual awakening.
Global Perspectives	Muslim English literature by Muslim authors provides global viewpoints, addressing universal themes, and connecting with diverse readers.	In The Moor’s Account by Laila Lalami, the novel offers a global perspective on exploration and identity.
Intertextuality	Muslim writers engage with Islamic and world literature, enriching their narratives.	Leila Aboulela’s The Translator interweaves Islamic texts and cultural references in the story of a Sudanese translator.
Cultural and Identity Conflicts	This literature often delves into the challenges of cultural and identity conflicts, especially for diaspora communities.	In “Brick Lane” by Monica Ali, the novel explores the cultural and identity conflicts faced by a Bangladeshi woman in the UK.
Social and Political Commentary	Many works by Muslim authors offer commentary on social and political issues, such as human rights, gender dynamics, and postcolonial legacies.	“Infidel” by Ayaan Hirsi Ali discusses her journey from a conservative Muslim upbringing to women’s rights activism.
Multiple Voices	Muslim English literature by Muslim writers showcases a multitude of voices, reflecting the diversity of Muslim authors and their characters.	In “Exit West” by Mohsin Hamid, the novel features multiple characters, each with a unique perspective on migration and displacement.
Hybridity and Postcolonial Discourse	Muslim authors often incorporate postcolonial themes, critically examining the impact of colonialism, power dynamics, and cultural hybridity.	In “The Reluctant Fundamentalist” by Mohsin Hamid, the novel explores postcolonial themes and cultural identity.
Narrative Innovation	Muslim writers experiment with narrative techniques and diverse genres, adding depth and complexity to the literary tradition.	“The Ghost Bride” by Yangsze Choo combines historical fiction with elements of the supernatural, reflecting cultural diversity.
Global Literary Citizenship	Many Muslim writers who are actively engaged in the global literary community participate in international literary events and dialogues.	Kamila Shamsie, a British-Pakistani author, actively contributes to global literature and discourse.

Principals of Muslim English Literature

1. Cultural Authenticity: Muslim English literature should reflect the cultural authenticity of the Muslim communities it represents. It should capture the nuances, traditions, and values of these communities, contributing to a richer understanding of their cultural identities.
2. Diversity and Inclusivity: The literature should embrace the diversity within the Muslim world. It should include a broad spectrum of voices, representing various regions, backgrounds, and experiences, and strive to be inclusive of different perspectives and identities.
3. Intersectionality: Muslim English literature often explores the intersection of various identities, such as faith, gender, ethnicity, and nationality. It should acknowledge and navigate the complex interplay of these identities in storytelling.
4. Global Relevance: The literature should transcend geographic boundaries and resonate with a global audience. It should address universal themes and issues, making it relatable to readers from diverse cultural backgrounds.
5. Linguistic Hybridity: Given the multilingual backgrounds of many Muslim writers, the literature may incorporate linguistic hybridity. It should embrace the interplay of languages, dialects, and cultural references, enriching the narratives.
6. Cultural Exchange: Muslim English literature often serves as a platform for cultural exchange. It should foster dialogue and understanding between Muslim and non-Muslim audiences, promoting mutual respect and appreciation.
7. Social and Political Commentary: The literature often engages with social and political issues. It should encourage critical examination of these issues, advocate for social justice, and challenge prevailing norms and power structures.
8. Interfaith and Intercommunity Dialogue: Muslim English literature may facilitate interfaith and intercommunity dialogue. It should promote a better understanding of Islam and foster conversations between different religious and cultural groups.
9. Narrative Experimentation: Writers in this tradition should feel free to experiment with narrative techniques and genres. This experimentation can lead to innovative storytelling that pushes the boundaries of conventional literary forms.
10. Literary Citizenship: Muslim English literature is often globally engaged. Writers should actively participate in the global literary community, contributing to international literary events, dialogues, and cultural exchanges.
11. Ethical Responsibility: Authors are often expected to uphold ethical responsibilities in their portrayals and representations. They should be conscious of the potential impact of their work and consider the implications of their narratives on readers and society.

Suggested Readings

1. Ahmed, Leila. A Quiet Revolution: The Veil’s Resurgence, from the Middle East to America. Yale University Press, 2011.
2. Dabashi, Hamid. Post-Orientalism: Knowledge and Power in a Time of Terror. Transaction Publishers, 2008.
3. Malik, Iftikhar H. Islam and Modernity: Muslims in Europe and the United States. Westview Press, 2004.
4. Nasr, Seyyed Hossein. Islamic Art and Spirituality. State University of New York Press, 1987.
5. Said, Edward W. Orientalism. Vintage Books, 1979.
6. Siddiqui, Mona. Muslim Women and Power: Political and Civic Engagement in West European Societies. Routledge, 2010.
7. Suleiman, Yasir. The Arabic Novel: An Historical and Critical Introduction. Syracuse University Press, 2011.