In the quest to define a classic piece of literature, the criteria often revolve around revealing universal truths according to CBC Books senior producer Ryan B. Patrick on The Next Chapter. Classic novels are those that delve into themes like love, loss, identity, power struggles, and the battle between good and evil, offering layers of meaning that evolve with the reader’s life experiences.
Patrick highlighted three books by Black Canadian authors that he considers modern classics or potential future classics. Dionne Brand’s What We All Long For, André Alexis’s Fifteen Dogs, and Ian Williams’s You’ve Changed were the selected works discussed during a conversation with Antonio Michael Downing on The Next Chapter.
Dionne Brand’s What We All Long For, a recipient of the 2006 National Book Award, portrays the lives of second-generation Canadians in Toronto navigating the complexities of urban existence. Brand’s unique perspective as a queer Black writer reframes Canadian literature, offering a fresh insight into the Black diasporic experience.
André Alexis’s Fifteen Dogs, winner of the 2017 Canada Reads and the 2015 Scotiabank Giller Prize, presents a thought-provoking premise where Greek gods grant human intelligence to 15 dogs, leading to a philosophical exploration of consciousness and identity. Alexis’s narrative prowess in blending complex themes with engaging storytelling has redefined the Black Canadian literary landscape.
Ian Williams’s You’ve Changed, though a recent release, is seen by Patrick as a potential modern classic. The novel delves into the challenges of marriage and personal evolution, interwoven with reflections on race and gender dynamics. Williams’s adeptness in experimenting with form and structure sets this work apart, showcasing his mastery in storytelling.
These works by Brand, Alexis, and Williams not only redefine Canadian literature but also offer readers a rich tapestry of storytelling that transcends boundaries and invites introspection.
