Ever pondered what elevates a book to classic status? If you have, we’ve got the answers for you.
CBC Books senior producer Ryan B. Patrick shared his thoughts on classic novels, defining them as works that unearth universal truths such as love versus loss, the quest for identity, and the eternal battle of good versus evil.
According to Patrick, a classic novel transcends time, offering new insights with each reading at different stages of life, revealing layers of meaning that evolve along with one’s experiences.
In a discussion with Antonio Michael Downing on The Next Chapter, Patrick highlighted three books by Black Canadian authors that he believes are on the path to becoming modern classics: What We All Long For by Dionne Brand, Fifteen Dogs by André Alexis, and You’ve Changed by Ian Williams.
Redefining the Landscape of Canadian Literature
Patrick’s first choice, What We All Long For by Dionne Brand, captures the lives of four second-generation Canadians grappling with the complexities of urban existence in Toronto.
Brand’s portrayal of the urban Black diaspora challenges conventional Canadian literary themes, offering a raw and immediate perspective on lived experiences of Black and brown individuals, which Patrick found both powerful and enlightening.
Dionne Brand, a highly acclaimed queer Black writer and artist, has garnered numerous accolades throughout her prolific career, including the 2006 National Book Award and the 2019 Blue Metropolis Violet Literary Prize.
A Compelling Narrative with Lasting Impact
Patrick’s second choice, Fifteen Dogs by André Alexis, delves into the philosophical exploration of consciousness as imbued in 15 dogs gifted with human intelligence by two Greek gods.
The book’s fast-paced narrative, coupled with its profound reflections on the essence of consciousness and identity, captivates readers and lingers in their minds long after reading.
André Alexis, a Trinidadian-Canadian author, has established himself as a master storyteller known for weaving intricate philosophical themes into engaging and surreal narratives, reshaping the Black Canadian literary landscape.
A Masterful Display of Narrative Technique
Patrick’s final pick, You’ve Changed by Ian Williams, though a recent release, shows promise as a potential modern classic with its exploration of a married couple’s evolving relationship and the challenges they face.
Williams skillfully navigates themes of marriage, race, and personal transformation, employing innovative narrative techniques that highlight the complexities of human relationships and identity.
Ian Williams, an accomplished author, English professor, and award-winning writer, has demonstrated his prowess in blending structure and form to create thought-provoking and impactful literary works.
Quotes have been condensed for clarity. This segment was produced by Jacqueline Kirk.