Subaltern Voices and Perspectives: The Poetry of Mahmoud Darwish

  • Balraj Dhillon Simon Fraser University

Abstract

This paper examines the complex use of poetry, identity, myth, and history as a subaltern method of resistance. Edward Said, in Culture and Imperialism, argues that the culture of postcolonial resistance manifests itself in literature by pulling away from separatist nationalism—and moves toward a literature that is liberating for humans—a more integrative view of society. This article argues that Mahmoud Darwish’s poetry uses identity, myth, and history to emblematize a collective Palestinian voice. By doing this, Darwish becomes the epitome of Said’s discussion—he resists separatist discourses through this poetry but at the same time resists the hegemonic structures of Israel and the West.

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Author Biography

Balraj Dhillon, Simon Fraser University
Balraj Dhillon recently finished his bachelor’s degree at Simon Fraser University with a major in history and philosophy. Dhillon’s degree specialized in Modern Middle East history—he is currently completing his B.Ed. with a minor in international education. In
2007, he taught art in an elementary school in India and has recently returned from teaching English in India at a school for adult Tibetan refugees.
Published
2011-07-23
How to Cite
Dhillon, Balraj. 2011. “Subaltern Voices and Perspectives: The Poetry of Mahmoud Darwish”. Illumine: Journal of the Centre for Studies in Religion and Society 9 (1). Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, 45-65. https://doi.org/10.18357/illumine9120107777.
Section
Articles