Oceanian literature

Oceanian (Australia, Polynesia, Melanesia, Micronesia) literature developed in isolation from the rest of the world and in a unique geographic environment. This allowed the development of a unique literature to thrive. Oceanian literature was heavily influenced by religion and ritual. This can be seen by the large amount of religious symbolism featured in it.

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Another major thing that influenced Oceanian society was its intricate oral tradition. For a long time, most Oceanian literature was not written down. As a result, stock formulas and rhyming were used in many works (these traits made it easier to memorize). Gods, creation myths, and spirits are also prominent in Oceanian literature, showcasing again the influence oral tradition had on the literature of Oceania.

Modern Oceanian literature is mainly written in the English language.

List of Countries

Prominent writers
Main article: List of Oceanian writers

Australia
Main article: List of Australian novelists

Fiji
  • Raymond Pillai
  • Subramani
  • Pio Manoa
  • Peter Thomson
  • Mikaele M.K. Yasa

Kiribati
  • Teweiariki Teaero

Marshall Islands
  • Bob Barclay
  • Daniel A. Kelin II
  • Jack Niedenthal
  • Dirk R. Spennemann

Federated States of Micronesia

Nauru

New Zealand
Main article: List of New Zealand writers

Palau
  • Susan Kloulechad

Papua New Guinea

Samoa

Solomon Islands
  • Celo Kulagoe
  • John Saunana

Tonga

Tuvalu

Vanuatu

See also

References
  • 'Oceanic literature', Guiart, Jean in Encyclopædia Britannica. Retrieved on December 14, 2007.
  • Goetzfridt, Nicholas J. (1995). Indigenous Literature of Oceania: A Survey of Criticism and Interpretation, Westport, CT: Greenwood Press.


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