The concept of a literary canon, a body of works considered essential reading, has been a subject of debate for centuries, dating back at least to the first Council of Nicaea in 325 AD. In the early 2000s, the author’s use of the term ”canon” in an article elicited ridicule from a columnist, who, prefiguring the rise of online hate, accused the author of being a cultural snob. This incident highlights the complex and often contentious nature of discussions surrounding cultural value and literary merit. While the columnist’s attack might have seemed isolated at the time, it foreshadowed the pervasive negativity and ad hominem attacks that would become characteristic of online discourse in the social media age. The author speculates that the columnist likely went on to have a ”successful” career as an online provocateur.
The debate around the literary canon has evolved since the early 2000s, with the term becoming more widely recognized, albeit often in a negative context. Discussions about establishing a Swedish literary canon, mirroring similar initiatives in other countries like Denmark, have sparked heated debate. These debates often center around the purpose and composition of such a canon, with some advocating for a nationalistic, identity-forming approach, while others argue for a more inclusive and diverse selection of works. The intensity of these arguments overshadows even the historical debates surrounding the biblical canon established centuries ago.
A crucial yet often overlooked aspect of the canon debate is the perspective of educators. Teachers face the constant challenge of justifying the importance of literature to students and parents in a world increasingly dominated by competing demands for attention. A formally recognized canon could provide a valuable tool for educators, offering a framework for curriculum development and a defense against criticisms that certain literary works are irrelevant or outdated. It would offer a concrete response to those who question the value of classic literature, providing teachers with a powerful argument against the devaluation of cultural heritage. Such a canon could serve as a bulwark against the pressures of a fast-paced, technologically driven world, ensuring that future generations continue to engage with the rich tapestry of literary tradition.
However, a canon already exists, though it is constantly evolving and shaped by a multitude of influences. This informal, dynamic canon is determined by a complex interplay of actors, including authors, publishers, librarians, booksellers, literary critics, readers, editors, educators, artists, musicians, agents, literary societies, theater producers, cultural journalists, translators, award committees, scholars, students, and even chance occurrences. Every individual who engages with literature, whether by reading, writing, or discussing it, contributes to the ongoing formation and reformation of this ever-shifting canon. Even the act of reading a newspaper’s book review list, like the one presented by DN, participates in this process.
The DN critic list, a snapshot of current literary trends, exemplifies this dynamic process. The list, compiled by ten critics, features a diverse range of works, including newly translated novels, poetry collections, and classic literature reimagined for contemporary audiences. The list’s fluidity, with titles entering and exiting based on critical reception and reader interest, demonstrates the ongoing negotiation of literary value. This constant churn reflects the evolving nature of literary tastes and the ongoing dialogue between critics, readers, and the wider cultural landscape. It underscores the point that canonical status is not fixed but rather subject to continuous reevaluation.
The listed works offer a glimpse into contemporary literary concerns, ranging from explorations of personal trauma and social injustice to reflections on history and identity. The inclusion of both established authors and emerging voices highlights the ongoing evolution of the literary landscape. The list also reflects the increasing globalization of literature, with works translated from various languages and representing diverse cultural perspectives. From Neige Sinno’s harrowing account of childhood trauma in ”Tvingad tiger” to Herman Melville’s timeless exploration of existential rebellion in ”Bartleby, skrivaren,” the list showcases the breadth and depth of contemporary literary production. The inclusion of works like Peter Pomerantsev’s ”Att vinna ett informationskrig,” which examines contemporary information warfare, demonstrates the canon’s responsiveness to current events and societal challenges.
