World Literature, Coloniality, and Translation: Toward the Coexistence of Diversity and Unity

Abstract

The present era seems to be in dire need of a transcultural intervention to achieve stronger bonds and closer affinities between cultures and nations. However, diversification – in literary, cultural, and political spheres – is apparently moving toward unprecedented fanaticism, ethnocentrism, and nationalism. It is true that diversity and multiplicity can colour our lives and take us toward deeper and stronger bonds, but if abused, they can also lead to unwelcome consequences. We believe that Comparative Literature is an effective strategy to prevent and counter such unwanted consequences that appear to be on the rise in almost all corners of the world, and we believe that “World Literature” is a unique and rich reservoir that provides us with raw (literary) materials to promote affinities and strengthen literary and cultural ties. World Literature highlights tradition, but also embraces diversity. It entertains unity and collective identity while it appears to be the juncture in which diversity and unity meet. However, World Literature does not appear to have its deserved place among readers and scholars. We argue that there are three main reasons for this unfortunate phenomenon. First, although the period of colonialism is over, coloniality is holding its dominion over our world. Second, the translation industry has failed to either introduce local marginalized native literatures internationally or follow on with the translation of literary pieces from cultures other than dominant Western ones. Third, English language and literature curriculum developers continue to appreciate only a few European and North American literary traditions and cultures, creating a narrow perspective on literature outside national borders. What we suggest here as the first step in the process of achieving unity and diversity simultaneously is addressing these aforementioned issues while envisioning solutions to such less visible problems that endanger mutual understanding and strong bonds between literatures and cultures.