Writing

Writing in Canada

The task of describing Canadian literature is also the task of describing Canada. Canadian authors have been and continue to be a true representation of their time and place.

There are actually two literary traditions in Canada corresponding to the languages of the two founding people. Historically, the backdrop of Canadian literature has been one of identity – the identity of regions and the identity of the country. Francophone literature was born in “le terroir” – the land – and became the voice of a rapidly evolving society. Anglophone literature also finds its roots in nature and the struggles of the frontier. Both were shaped by large outside cultural influences.

Today, Canadian literature is a dynamic composition of drama, novels, spoken word, poetry and graphic novels, with writers working in film, television, radio, multimedia and education. Canadian writers are continuously gaining prominence on the international literary scene with best selling works and prestigious awards and prizes. Yann Martel, Douglas Coupland, Margaret Atwood, Gabrielle Roy and Antonine Maillet have only paved the way.

Literature in Canada is not a monolithic compendium of works. It is the sum of the differences that make us Canadians.