Beyond Rebellion and Exoticism

"Wedsly Turenne Guerrier embarks on a fascinating journey that explores the contributions of iconic Haitian authors, poets, and artists who have contributed so much to its history, culture and society." —François Pierre-Louis, Professor of Political Science and Chair, Queens College, City University of New York "This must-read book brings to the forefront aspects of Haitian history, literature and culture that have been neglected for too long. The author paints an authentic, brilliant, and novel portrait of Haiti." —Lewis Ampidou Clorméus, Professor of Sociology, State University of Haiti, Associate Research Scholar, Yale University In spite of its richness and beauty, Haitian literature remains, for the most part, unknown and understudied. It is multilingual, creating further barriers for many readers. Beyond Rebellion and Exoticism: Selected Visions of Haiti 1892–1994 aims to overcome these barriers, presenting Haitian literature in all its dazzling variety and contrasts, and offering translations of previously untranslated works from French and Haitian Creole into English. The book analyzes works by Haitian writers such as Massillon Coicou, Jacques Roumain, Jean-Claude Martineau, Emmanuel Védrine and Anne-Christine d’Adesky, as well as the Martinican author Aimé Césaire. Published between 1892 and 1994, this distinguished body of work reveals the multiplicity of Haitian identity and interiority. Across various languages, periods and genres, these authors use their voices to resist illegitimate power and dictatorship. By showing the impact of colonization and slavery on Haitian thought, the interference of the international community in Haiti’s affairs, the dictatorial nature of the Duvalier regimes, and the efforts by Haitian citizens to improve their lives and reject hegemonic influences, author Wedsly Guerrier presents a compelling portrait of Haiti that moves beyond preconceived notions of this complicated, fascinating, and unique country.