The study of World Englishes within a literary context has been predominantly conducted with reference to either a linguistics or a postcolonial theoretical framework. The aim of this symposium is to progress beyond these traditional foci. Whilst linguistic analysis and postcolonial theory remain useful tools for the study of World Englishes literature, the guiding assumption of this symposium is that they are insufficient as dominant approaches. Therefore this symposium will offer papers on World Englishes literature which complement these approaches with readings more firmly grounded in literary studies. Papers are thus invited which further explore, for example, the literary-theoretical, the thematic or the ideological dimensions of the chosen texts. Those proposing papers are encouraged also to “think beyond the canonical” in their choice of texts for analysis: readings of texts by new, emerging or neglected writers will be warmly welcomed.

Please note that, for the purposes of this symposium, “World Englishes literature” is understood as being literature written in English and originating from the “Outer Circle” or “Expanding Circle” as defined by Braj B. Kachru, “Teaching World Englishes”, in The Other Tongue: Teaching English Across Cultures, ed. Braj. B. Kachru (Urbana: Illinois University Press, 1992), pp. 355-365.

Selected conference proceedings may be included in a volume to be published by Critical, Cultural and Communications Press in 2009.

Symposium fee: £35 (includes symposium materials, refreshments and lunch on both days).

Accommodation is available at reasonable rates on-site for up to 3 nights (Fri-Sun).

Abstracts of no more than 300 words should be submitted to the following by post or e-mail by 30th May 2008: