Discover the compelling narrative of 'The Expatriate Myth' by Helen Bones, a profound examination of New Zealand's literary expatriates. This meticulously researched book delves into the lives of 19th and 20th-century New Zealand writers who ventured abroad in search of inspiration and success. With dimensions of 150 x 230 mm and 242 pages, this paperback edition offers readers a fresh perspective, challenging the notion that these writers left their homeland solely due to a lack of literary opportunities. Instead, Bones explores how many maintained a connection to New Zealand while navigating their writing careers within international frameworks. Perfect for literature students, scholars, and anyone interested in understanding the complexities of national identity in literary studies, this book unveils the intricate relationship between expatriatism and creativity. Published by Otago University Press on 20-02-2018, 'The Expatriate Myth' is essential reading for those wanting to unravel the myths surrounding New Zealand's literary history. Plus, enjoy the benefit of local shipping: we happily provide combined shipping for your convenience. Smartfox NZ is a proudly NZ owned business based in Auckland, meaning you can expect no unexpected import charges or customs duties when you purchase this item, ensuring a smooth shopping experience right from New Zealand.

CONDITION: Brand New
Dimensions: 150 x 230 mm
Pages: 242
Bind: paperback
Author: Helen Bones Publisher: Otago University Press
Publication Date: 20-02-2018

Many New Zealand writers in the late nineteenth and early twentieth century travelled extensively or lived overseas for a time, and they often led very interesting lives. The received wisdom is that they were forced to leave these colonial backblocks in search of literary inspiration and publishing opportunities. In The Expatriate Myth, Helen Bones presents a challenge to this conventional understanding, based on detailed historical and empirical research. Was it actually necessary for them to leave to find success? How prevalent was expatriatism among New Zealand writers? Did their experiences fit the usual tropes about expatriatism and exile? Were they fleeing an oppressive society lacking in literary opportunity? In the field of literary studies, scholars are often consumed with questions about ‘national’ literature and ‘what it means to be a New Zealander’. And yet many of New Zealand’s writers living overseas operated in a transnational way, taking advantage of colonial networks in a way that belies any notion of a single national allegiance. Most who left New Zealand, even if they were away for a time, continued to write about and interact with their homeland, and in many cases came back. In this fascinating and clear-sighted book, Helen Bones offers a fresh perspective on some hoary New Zealand literary chestnuts.

We are happy to combine shipping. Smartfox is a NZ owned business located in Auckland. This product is in stock in NZ which means no unexpected import charges, custom duty or tax.