"Magical Realism in Twenty-First-Century Transnational Fiction: The Global Supernatural offers a much-needed re-evaluation of magical realism, moving beyond traditional postcolonial frameworks to explore its vibrant evolution in the 21st century. Analysing the works of contemporary authors like Helen Oyeyemi, Mohsin Hamid, Preeta Samarasan and Junot Di-az, this book explores how magical realism has been adapted to depict the complex, fluid identities and experiences of migrants and their children in a globalised world. By employing the psychoanalytic concept of relationality, it examines the intricate interplay between cultures, beliefs and personal narratives. Challenging outdated notions of 'magic' versus 'realism' this study reveals how the supernatural is used to express the disorientation, paradox and trauma of transnational lives. This book is essential for anyone seeking to understand the enduring creative power of magical realism"-- Provided by publisher.
It re-evaluates magical realism in response to its enduring popularity in 21st century transnational fiction. Challenging existing postcolonial frameworks, it highlights shifts in technique and theme, exploring how contemporary authors adapt the mode to express the complex experiences.
Acknowledgements
Introduction
Chapter One: Trauma and the abiku: Literalising the collapse of national
identity in Helen Oyeyemis The Icarus Girl
Chapter Two: Homelessness, supernatural migrations and disconnected
connectivity in the deterritorialised magical realism of Mohsin Hamids Exit
West
Chapter Three: The transnational elite, the denial of human relatedness and
gothic magical realism in Preeta Samarasans Evening is the Whole Day
Chapter Four: Writing the lightning: Family relatedness, transnational curses
and metafictional magical realism in Junot Díazs The Brief Wondrous Life of
Oscar Wao
Conclusion
Index
D. Chichester is an independent researcher specialising in contemporary global literature. His research focuses on the evolving landscape of magical realism and speculative fiction in the 21st century, with emphasis on how authors depict the experiences of migrants and their children. Holding a PhD from Kings College London, D. Chichester is committed to advancing scholarship in global literature and exploring the innovative ways authors creatively address todays fragmented social realities.
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