It is time to broaden our horizons. Our school days were filled with Hardy, Shakespeare, Dickens etc, but today our access to literature is widening. In recent years more and more Asian literature has crossed to our shores. Works from India and its English-speaking neighbours are becoming more prominent mainly because they avoid the problem of translation.
However, Michael Binyon of the Times Online points out that we often find ourselves less familiar with the literature of Japan or South-East Asia as little has been translated. But this is now being addressed by the Festival of Asian Literature that is taking place at Asia House between 12th and 23rd May. This is the second festival of its kind which will attempt to build on the writings and translations of Asian writers available in Britain.
Asia House is fast becoming London’s cultural window as the main showcase of the arts, films, music and literature from India, China and some 30 other countries from Indonesia to the Gulf. The festival will not only bring you access to modern Chinese Art, discussions on Indian nationalism and the opportunity to join in a Thai festival, but it also aims to increase your awareness of Asian literature. You will be able to listen to discussions by writers and commentators of culture, literature and politics across the continent. It is hoped that it will appeal to those of Asian culture as well as those wanting to discover something new.
Sally Ormond
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