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Let's Discuss

© Paula E. Kirman

Readers of Canadian literature are a varied bunch. The purpose of this column is to get to know each other a little bit better, by utilizing the Discussion section of this area.

Many readers live in the country, while others live abroad in the United States and Europe. I live in Western Canada. What part of the country do you live in, if you even live in Canada, and how do you think your background has influenced your taste in Canadian literature? If you live outside the country, tell us how you became acquainted with Canadian authors and books.

Last week I asked what your favorite authors are, and in the discussion thread below some names such as Alice Munro and Carol Shields were named. Let's hear some more -- what are your favorite Canadian writers and their works?

What was the first Canadian novel you ever read? For me, it was probably Jacob Two-Two Meets the Hooded Fang by Mordecai Richler when I was but a young tyke -- and I don't even think at the time I knew he was Canadian (nor did I probably care).

Do you believe that Canadian literature is distinctly different from writers from other parts of the world, and if so, in what ways? I think there is definitely a Canadian sensibility that comes through in many authors' work -- Canadian cities as backdrops, satire made of the country's politicians, history, and even the culture in general being woven into the fabric of a story, with something as simple as the mention of a song by a Canadian artist or a television show.

What Canadian work -- be it a short story, novel or poem -- has had the greatest influence in your life? Discuss that one memorable literary work that stuck with you beyond the confines of the classroom.

Remember, the Discussion area is always open to your comments and questions dealing with Canadian literature. I try to respond to all posts in a timely manner, and I look forward to getting to know you a little bit better!

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