| Zdroj: |
Literature & Culture: Process, Interaction, Problems / Literatūra un Kultūra: Process, Mijiedarbība, Problēmas; 2013, Vol. 14, p121-126, 6p |
| Abstrakt: |
Latvia as a Lost Paradise is an image that is often used in autobiographies and memories about deportations to Siberia and Far North and in the narratives of Latvian exile authors. This paper uses the works by S. Kalniete, M. Vanaga, O. Kroders (as examples of those exiled to Siberia or Far North) and V. Toma, B. Veisberga, A. Nesaule (as examples of those who fled west) to establish that the literature of the Latvian diaspora (written in Latvian or other languages) both reflected and created a sense of belonging that was central to a continuing attachment to Latvia. Latvia became a central touch point of life. Despite the fact that they had either been sent away or fled, this literature shows that though people were in the periphery of Latvia, it remained a very important, if not central, touch point. The most significant links with Latvia are nature, language, art, culture and a feeling of home. Those in the west who acquired a new home and belonging to their new homeland, still find attachment to Latvia important. They create and recreate a sense of belonging through continued use of a common culture and language and through cherishing memories of the time flow in Latvia they have experienced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
