What do you think of the Caribbean short story thus far?
It's mid-semester and we've examined a few short stories and essays in the lectures and tutorials. What's your impressions of the Caribbean short story so far? Have you learnt anything new?
The course thus far is undoubtedly exciting and fun (not surprising at all!). What has struck me about the short story is not only how it extrapolates the Caribbean context and provides insights into various worlds but it is the economy of the form. Similar to poetry, it says so much in so little. This reality of the short story thus makes reading even more eventful and fascinating as the reader is required to unearth all that is said without the author's pen. Additionally it is interesting to me how this course allows us to read more critically than the average reader. We are given the tools to see new perspectives that we would have previously missed and not be deceived by what appears to be the point of the story.
Thank you for starting us off, ChicaLiteratura. Caribbean literature on the whole is so rich and wonderful. I am very proud of and captivated by the works in our Caribbean literary canon, past and present. I hope that when you and your classmates get a chance you can read many more Caribbean short stories that are not included in the anthology we're using for the course - for example, those that I posted for you on myElearning and others besides those, too!
I have learnt the only thing short in the short stories is the length of the stories. The short stories require the same or even more analytical skills than that of longer stories. Each sentence, punctuation mark and even word is expertly and purposely placed so as to create a specific effect. The stories practice economy of form which allows room for the reader’s own interpretation. I also saw how I can apply some of the devices I learned in “Point of View and Meaning in Literary Discourse” to analyze the stories, such as, focalization, modality and spatial and temporal deixis. I can relate too many of the Caribbean themes, dialects and situations and I especially enjoy the humorous stories.
I have learnt that it really is quality rather than quantity. The short stories thus far have all brought forward similar ideas of the Caribbean experience but through a variety of stylistic techniques.Additionally, these ideas are ones that we as Caribbean students can identify with and learn so much from.I am amazed by the way in which so much meaning can be condensed into a few paragraphs. Therefore, I look forward to discovering further stylistic methods of the Caribbean authors and developing my knowledge of how this craft works.
I have learnt to appreciate West Indian Prose Fiction even more than I did before. The techniques and style of writing from each author strikes me to question why they would use a particular device or technique rather than use another. That questioning and speculation of the text is what I enjoy the most since it is this quality of the short story which also encourages the challenging of opinions and ideas that may arise in discussion.
I also agree with what Josi said, the quality of the writing is the most outstanding feature of short story writing rather then the quantity. My admiration lies in the level of creativity a writer displays even within a small space.
Like Cherise, I have also learnt to appreciate West Indian Prose Fiction even more. There is so much depth and history in each story. Owing to the fact that we are children of the Caribbean soil, the stories presented in this collection, allows us the opportunity to embrace a past that was so rich and vibrant.
Based on the Wednesday 2-3 tutorial discussion, our Caribbean stories are not being considered 'true' short stories. It is such a blasphemy to think such a thing, especially since most of them follow the tenets of the short story. The techniques used by our Caribbean authors are unique and can thus match those of the Western stories.
The stories are thrilling and entertaining, even with the economy of words being utilized. The themes are highlighted in such a way, that one can become enveloped by the richness of our talent for story telling.
We have so many talented writers, it is a true inspiration to have this opportunity to explore the creativity of our literary heroes. Everytime I read one of these stroies, I have to read it again and again, simply to experience this remarkable journey.
I have learnt that the themes explored are themes of every Caribbean person's life. We have experience or know someone in a similar situation. Like Denielle, I realized that the length of the story leaves each reader to interpret the story differently. The analysis of the short story has to be thoroughly done in order to get t the core of the story.
After this more extended exposure to the short story, I have even more of an appreciation for the medium. It was actually while doing LING 2404, that I developed an enduring love for the short story, having been given more tools with which to view it.
These more concise works are to me more enjoyable to read and analyse because, there is much that has to be assumed (due to its brevity) and there is also a great deal that the writer provides for us between the lines. Every peculiarity is questionable as it is done intentionally.
I have learnt to be even more proud of my Caribbean identity. By being exposed to these masterpieces I recognize the genius that is the Caribbean writer. I used to think that our only great writers were V.S. Naipaul and Derek Walcott. How misguided and ignorant I have been! By being exposed to authors like Austin Clarke and C.L.R. James, I can appreciate the rich culture and complexities that make our stories unique. By scrutinizing the works of Jean Rhys, through the eyes of Joanna Johnson, I feel proud that she was ahead of her time when she crafted in her modernist style. Most importantly, she never forgot where she came from since the Caribbean became her muse that added the extra magic to fingers already touched by angels. (Just like Anya!) I enjoy all of the lectures and tutorials; they help me to escape and surrender to all that is West Indian.
During the course of the West Indian Literature class, I have learnt to appreciate the Caribbean literary forms alot more. The structure that exists is comparable to that of any other but what appeals to me the most are the themes explored. Writers across the span of the West Indies focus on many of the same themes within their work and these serve to unify the focus.
The course West Indian Prose Fiction:Short Narratives has been a wonderful experience thus far. This course I must admit is truly an eye opener as it shows not only the brilliance and talent of our writers but also the little appreciation shown to this literary form as well as the little critical work done on the literature. However even though this remains a fact the works produced are rich with our history,ideology, culture and identity. The writers that we have met thus far are from different countries within the West Indies, yet the the reader can identify with each of these stories as there is some common or shared experience within them. These stories are also dense with meaning as every event,object or word is deliberate. These writers have to make every word count as their form does not allow them the luxury of space that other writers have.
The journey into learning about Caribbean Short Story is indeed a wonderful and enjoyable one. It provides an opportunity in which I, as a Caribbean native and reader, get to relate and appreciate what is part of my history and culture. the short stories in their own right, are very mucha work of art that has allowed me to connect and love my heritage. This course has fulfilled one of my desires which is to have more of the West Indian literature studied at all levels of education. The ability to say so much in so little words is a unique feature to our West Indian writers and being able to critique these short stories in an enjoyable way is even more facinating.This class has provided an arena in which I can expand my knowledge and understanding of the West Indies and the West Indian writers.
Caribbean short stories have always been my preference when it came to West Indian Literature. However , the Caribbean short stories I have encountered in this course has only fueled my appreciation for West Indian literature and my Caribbean identity . It has reminded me of that which is uniquely ours, our culture. That which can't be easily duplicated ... so distinct from any other out there .
In doing the course LITS 2510 I have grown more fond of the Caribbean short story. It is a clear reflection of various factors (history, economy, society, beliefs, migration etc)which are indicative of the Caribbean and it's people. The Caribbean short story for me is an exciting and informative genre as it makes me more aware of what it entails to be a part of the Caribbean and hence I am very proud to be part of something so dynamic.
What I love most about the course thus far is having the opportunity to get to know the other Caribbean islands. Thus far in my studies, I have read of Africa, India and America, but have not had the opportunity to study the literary minds in my own back yard. It is exciting to know all that the Caribbean has to offer in the Literary genre. I have fallen in love with Reinaldo Arenas and in studying him I have gained insight into the tumultuous history of Cuba. There is so much about the Caribbean that I did not know that this course is exposing me to.
As a child I always loved reading West Indian novels and stories as they are quite exciting and consisted of topics that as a reader I can relate. In doing this course it has opened my eyes to the different style used by Caribbean writers and although the Caribbean is considered to be "third world" we have writers within our diaspora who have met international standards and thus we can compete with them no matter if they consider us to be "third world." In this essence it has made me proud to be West Indian to be part of a generation who are paving a way forward for other West Indian writers.
Caribbean Short stories are undoubtedly wonderful. I like the fact that it exhibits the Caribbean context and provide real events that we, the readers, can relate to. The issues and ideas brought forward are the ones we can identify with and learn from. The techniques and style of writing portrayed by each writer is extraordinary. It captivates the readers and encourages us to continue reading to find out what happens next. I just love the creativity each writer posits in their short stories.
I really have enjoyed the short stories thus far. The perceptions of the stories have expanded my range in thinking. They are limitless and timeless as they exceed boundaries beyond the imagination of the reader. I really do fine that the dream like effect in particular stories are fascinating. The reader not only learns from the stories but grows in his/her experience. The fact that we the students are allowed to share the experience of the stories with one another is very enlightening. The stories based in the Caribbean are really relatable (agreeing with Diane).
The Caribbean short stories are very rich in its dialect(s),settings etc... and there is a connection between the reader and the text, whereby the reader can identify with the narrator, characters etc thus making the text comprehensible to be read. Within the Caribbean story stories there is a constant link with the Caribbean's history which tend to have an impact on the Caribbean in the 21st century. Though the Caribbean is made up of many different islands, there is a oneness/particular identity shared among its people which is noticed within the stories. (Kimberly Rojas)
I have always been in love with Literature, mainly; Caribbean/ West Indian/ Trinidadian Literature. Personally the short stories are wonderful, it shows the talent and true skill of the author as they produce a concise, relatable piece of work that informs and entertains the reader. Reading a short story is one thing, yet reading a short story after being informed of the methods and techniques that can be used for specific purposes opens your eyes to new messages that would have been overlooked otherwise. Most of the short stories are very enjoyable, all of them were informative. I do appreciate this course, the materials offered and the method of teaching. The Caribbean short story is a unique spectacle that reveals the lives of a people. The essays are also helpful as they present certain perspectives and we are open to developing our thoughts and ideas as we for our own perspectives based on our opinions. The short stories are wonderful and I see them as very beneficial to a Caribbean society.
From doing this course I realised that the Caribbean Short Story is different from other short stories in that it comes out of the oral tradition so there are a lot of oral aspects present in the stroies through the dialogue and the way the creole language is used. The Caribbean Short Story shows through the use of setting, language and it's characters, the history, traditions and cultures in the Caribbean. Although I find the stories very interesting, I realised that because I don't know my history all that well, I had to go look up on what certain terms and characters were or what they represented. A lot of the stories we studied appeared to have a personal tone to it and were told from the first person or third person narrative points of view. There were also a good bit of stories with unreliable narrators such as in 'Mammie's Form at the Post Office' and 'The Master Tailor and the Teacher's Skirt.' We learnt also about the different family structures and how they come out in the stories. This is something I never paid much attention to before. In all I found the course interesting and it was easy to follow especially since the stories were written from Caribbean authors' perspective. Some still proved to be challenging such as 'Dream Haiti'. I think I have to go read that over.
I was exposed to West Indian literature at an early age in life; I always loved it as it was a form of relaxation because of its comic-relief contents but never did I seemed to do any analysis. In this class I’ve enjoyed West Indian literature more and respected it as it made me realized that there were a lot more underlying meanings and it made me appreciate the literature more. This class also exposed me to a lot more West Indian literature especially short stories.
The course thus far is undoubtedly exciting and fun (not surprising at all!). What has struck me about the short story is not only how it extrapolates the Caribbean context and provides insights into various worlds but it is the economy of the form. Similar to poetry, it says so much in so little. This reality of the short story thus makes reading even more eventful and fascinating as the reader is required to unearth all that is said without the author's pen. Additionally it is interesting to me how this course allows us to read more critically than the average reader. We are given the tools to see new perspectives that we would have previously missed and not be deceived by what appears to be the point of the story.
ReplyDeleteThank you for starting us off, ChicaLiteratura. Caribbean literature on the whole is so rich and wonderful. I am very proud of and captivated by the works in our Caribbean literary canon, past and present. I hope that when you and your classmates get a chance you can read many more Caribbean short stories that are not included in the anthology we're using for the course - for example, those that I posted for you on myElearning and others besides those, too!
ReplyDeleteI have learnt the only thing short in the short stories is the length of the stories. The short stories require the same or even more analytical skills than that of longer stories. Each sentence, punctuation mark and even word is expertly and purposely placed so as to create a specific effect. The stories practice economy of form which allows room for the reader’s own interpretation. I also saw how I can apply some of the devices I learned in “Point of View and Meaning in Literary Discourse” to analyze the stories, such as, focalization, modality and spatial and temporal deixis. I can relate too many of the Caribbean themes, dialects and situations and I especially enjoy the humorous stories.
ReplyDeleteI have learnt that it really is quality rather than quantity. The short stories thus far have all brought forward similar ideas of the Caribbean experience but through a variety of stylistic techniques.Additionally, these ideas are ones that we as Caribbean students can identify with and learn so much from.I am amazed by the way in which so much meaning can be condensed into a few paragraphs. Therefore, I look forward to discovering further stylistic methods of the Caribbean authors and developing my knowledge of how this craft works.
ReplyDeleteI have learnt to appreciate West Indian Prose Fiction even more than I did before. The techniques and style of writing from each author strikes me to question why they would use a particular device or technique rather than use another. That questioning and speculation of the text is what I enjoy the most since it is this quality of the short story which also encourages the challenging of opinions and ideas that may arise in discussion.
ReplyDeleteI also agree with what Josi said, the quality of the writing is the most outstanding feature of short story writing rather then the quantity. My admiration lies in the level of creativity a writer displays even within a small space.
Like Cherise, I have also learnt to appreciate West Indian Prose Fiction even more. There is so much depth and history in each story. Owing to the fact that we are children of the Caribbean soil, the stories presented in this collection, allows us the opportunity to embrace a past that was so rich and vibrant.
ReplyDeleteBased on the Wednesday 2-3 tutorial discussion, our Caribbean stories are not being considered 'true' short stories. It is such a blasphemy to think such a thing, especially since most of them follow the tenets of the short story. The techniques used by our Caribbean authors are unique and can thus match those of the Western stories.
The stories are thrilling and entertaining, even with the economy of words being utilized. The themes are highlighted in such a way, that one can become enveloped by the richness of our talent for story telling.
We have so many talented writers, it is a true inspiration to have this opportunity to explore the creativity of our literary heroes. Everytime I read one of these stroies, I have to read it again and again, simply to experience this remarkable journey.
I have learnt that the themes explored are themes of every Caribbean person's life. We have experience or know someone in a similar situation. Like Denielle, I realized that the length of the story leaves each reader to interpret the story differently. The analysis of the short story has to be thoroughly done in order to get t the core of the story.
ReplyDeleteAfter this more extended exposure to the short story, I have even more of an appreciation for the medium. It was actually while doing LING 2404, that I developed an enduring love for the short story, having been given more tools with which to view it.
ReplyDeleteThese more concise works are to me more enjoyable to read and analyse because, there is much that has to be assumed (due to its brevity) and there is also a great deal that the writer provides for us between the lines. Every peculiarity is questionable as it is done intentionally.
I have learnt to be even more proud of my Caribbean identity. By being exposed to these masterpieces I recognize the genius that is the Caribbean writer. I used to think that our only great writers were V.S. Naipaul and Derek Walcott. How misguided and ignorant I have been! By being exposed to authors like Austin Clarke and C.L.R. James, I can appreciate the rich culture and complexities that make our stories unique. By scrutinizing the works of Jean Rhys, through the eyes of Joanna Johnson, I feel proud that she was ahead of her time when she crafted in her modernist style. Most importantly, she never forgot where she came from since the Caribbean became her muse that added the extra magic to fingers already touched by angels. (Just like Anya!) I enjoy all of the lectures and tutorials; they help me to escape and surrender to all that is West Indian.
ReplyDeleteDuring the course of the West Indian Literature class, I have learnt to appreciate the Caribbean literary forms alot more. The structure that exists is comparable to that of any other but what appeals to me the most are the themes explored.
ReplyDeleteWriters across the span of the West Indies focus on many of the same themes within their work and these serve to unify the focus.
The course West Indian Prose Fiction:Short Narratives has been a wonderful experience thus far. This course I must admit is truly an eye opener as it shows not only the brilliance and talent of our writers but also the little appreciation shown to this literary form as well as the little critical work done on the literature. However even though this remains a fact the works produced are rich with our history,ideology, culture and identity. The writers that we have met thus far are from different countries within the West Indies, yet the the reader can identify with each of these stories as there is some common or shared experience within them. These stories are also dense with meaning as every event,object or word is deliberate. These writers have to make every word count as their form does not allow them the luxury of space that other writers have.
ReplyDeleteThe journey into learning about Caribbean Short Story is indeed a wonderful and enjoyable one. It provides an opportunity in which I, as a Caribbean native and reader, get to relate and appreciate what is part of my history and culture. the short stories in their own right, are very mucha work of art that has allowed me to connect and love my heritage. This course has fulfilled one of my desires which is to have more of the West Indian literature studied at all levels of education. The ability to say so much in so little words is a unique feature to our West Indian writers and being able to critique these short stories in an enjoyable way is even more facinating.This class has provided an arena in which I can expand my knowledge and understanding of the West Indies and the West Indian writers.
ReplyDeleteCaribbean short stories have always been my preference when it came to West Indian Literature. However , the Caribbean short stories I have encountered in this course has only fueled my appreciation for West Indian literature and my Caribbean identity . It has reminded me of that which is uniquely ours, our culture. That which can't be easily duplicated ... so distinct from any other out there .
ReplyDeleteIn doing the course LITS 2510 I have grown more fond of the Caribbean short story. It is a clear reflection of various factors (history, economy, society, beliefs, migration etc)which are indicative of the Caribbean and it's people. The Caribbean short story for me is an exciting and informative genre as it makes me more aware of what it entails to be a part of the Caribbean and hence I am very proud to be part of something so dynamic.
ReplyDeleteWhat I love most about the course thus far is having the opportunity to get to know the other Caribbean islands. Thus far in my studies, I have read of Africa, India and America, but have not had the opportunity to study the literary minds in my own back yard. It is exciting to know all that the Caribbean has to offer in the Literary genre. I have fallen in love with Reinaldo Arenas and in studying him I have gained insight into the tumultuous history of Cuba. There is so much about the Caribbean that I did not know that this course is exposing me to.
ReplyDeleteAs a child I always loved reading West Indian novels and stories as they are quite exciting and consisted of topics that as a reader I can relate. In doing this course it has opened my eyes to the different style used by Caribbean writers and although the Caribbean is considered to be "third world" we have writers within our diaspora who have met international standards and thus we can compete with them no matter if they consider us to be "third world." In this essence it has made me proud to be West Indian to be part of a generation who are paving a way forward for other West Indian writers.
ReplyDeleteCaribbean Short stories are undoubtedly wonderful. I like the fact that it exhibits the Caribbean context and provide real events that we, the readers, can relate to. The issues and ideas brought forward are the ones we can identify with and learn from. The techniques and style of writing portrayed by each writer is extraordinary. It captivates the readers and encourages us to continue reading to find out what happens next. I just love the creativity each writer posits in their short stories.
ReplyDeleteI really have enjoyed the short stories thus far. The perceptions of the stories have expanded my range in thinking. They are limitless and timeless as they exceed boundaries beyond the imagination of the reader. I really do fine that the dream like effect in particular stories are fascinating. The reader not only learns from the stories but grows in his/her experience. The fact that we the students are allowed to share the experience of the stories with one another is very enlightening. The stories based in the Caribbean are really relatable (agreeing with Diane).
ReplyDeleteThe Caribbean short stories are very rich in its dialect(s),settings etc... and there is a connection between the reader and the text, whereby the reader can identify with the narrator, characters etc thus making the text comprehensible to be read. Within the Caribbean story stories there is a constant link with the Caribbean's history which tend to have an impact on the Caribbean in the 21st century. Though the Caribbean is made up of many different islands, there is a oneness/particular identity shared among its people which is noticed within the stories.
ReplyDelete(Kimberly Rojas)
I have always been in love with Literature, mainly; Caribbean/ West Indian/ Trinidadian Literature. Personally the short stories are wonderful, it shows the talent and true skill of the author as they produce a concise, relatable piece of work that informs and entertains the reader. Reading a short story is one thing, yet reading a short story after being informed of the methods and techniques that can be used for specific purposes opens your eyes to new messages that would have been overlooked otherwise.
ReplyDeleteMost of the short stories are very enjoyable, all of them were informative. I do appreciate this course, the materials offered and the method of teaching. The Caribbean short story is a unique spectacle that reveals the lives of a people. The essays are also helpful as they present certain perspectives and we are open to developing our thoughts and ideas as we for our own perspectives based on our opinions.
The short stories are wonderful and I see them as very beneficial to a Caribbean society.
From doing this course I realised that the Caribbean Short Story is different from other short stories in that it comes out of the oral tradition so there are a lot of oral aspects present in the stroies through the dialogue and the way the creole language is used. The Caribbean Short Story shows through the use of setting, language and it's characters, the history, traditions and cultures in the Caribbean. Although I find the stories very interesting, I realised that because I don't know my history all that well, I had to go look up on what certain terms and characters were or what they represented.
ReplyDeleteA lot of the stories we studied appeared to have a personal tone to it and were told from the first person or third person narrative points of view. There were also a good bit of stories with unreliable narrators such as in 'Mammie's Form at the Post Office' and 'The Master Tailor and the Teacher's Skirt.' We learnt also about the different family structures and how they come out in the stories. This is something I never paid much attention to before.
In all I found the course interesting and it was easy to follow especially since the stories were written from Caribbean authors' perspective. Some still proved to be challenging such as 'Dream Haiti'. I think I have to go read that over.
I was exposed to West Indian literature at an early age in life; I always loved it as it was a form of relaxation because of its comic-relief contents but never did I seemed to do any analysis. In this class I’ve enjoyed West Indian literature more and respected it as it made me realized that there were a lot more underlying meanings and it made me appreciate the literature more. This class also exposed me to a lot more West Indian literature especially short stories.
ReplyDelete