Aesthetics in literary studies encompasses the artistic expression used by writers to imbue narratives with meaning, incorporating elements such as language, symbolism, and narrative structure. While aesthetic elements are commonly used by writers from diverse cultural backgrounds, Indigenous writers deploy a distinct cultural aesthetic into their works making a departure from the conventional literary forms found in mainstream writings. The aesthetic feature in contemporary Indigenous literature from North-East India lies in the writers’ use of elements from oral tradition that constitutes community history, knowledge and information. These oral traditions are transposed into writing through the writers’ unique stylistic elements, language choices, and narrative techniques, tailored to suit the material with which they are engaging. Postcolonial studies examine the use of oral art as literature, often focusing on how oral traditions intersect with written literature in postcolonial contexts. In line with this perspective, this essay looks at how contemporary Indigenous writers of North-East India integrate aesthetic elements into their literature, and what significance does this hold for the preservation and expression of Indigenous culture. Through a close study of the contemporary literary works, the essay will examine the themes and motifs, and study how they resonate with the distinctive cultural perspectives and experiences of Indigenous communities in the region.

Authors:
Imti Watitula Longkumer, Institute of Infrastructure, Technology, Research And Management Ahmedabad, India

About the Presenter(s)
Dr Imti Watitula Longkumer is a University Assistant Professor/Lecturer at Institute of Infrastructure, Technology, Research And Management Ahmedabad in India

See this presentation on the full schedule – Saturday Schedule

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