The Evolution of Pakistani Literature in English: A Historical Overview

Pakistani literature in English has a complex and layered history, one that has been shaped by a variety of cultural, historical, and political factors. Its roots trace back to the colonial era, but it has evolved into a distinctive body of work that is reflective of the nation's post-independence identity, struggles, and aspirations. While the subject of Pakistani literature in English has always sparked debate—especially due to identity issues among Pakistani writers—its growth over the years is a testimony to its resilience and significance in the world literary landscape.

Origins and Early Development

The origins of Pakistani English literature can be traced to the period of British colonial rule, but the true evolution of this literary tradition began post-independence, with the creation of Pakistan in 1947. As Taufiq Rafat, one of Pakistan’s most revered poets, states, "A fair number of Pakistani writers in English… [so] we may point to a distinct Pakistani-English literature." This assertion highlights the unique quality of Pakistan’s literary contributions in English, despite the longstanding debate over whether it is primarily "Pakistani literature" or "Muslim literature" within the South Asian context.

Diverging Views on the Literature's Roots

Scholars and critics have long disagreed on the historical starting point of Pakistani literature in English. Some scholars with a religious bent, such as Faiz Ahmed Faiz and Professor Gilani Kamran, argue that its origins can be traced to the arrival of Islam in the subcontinent in 712 AD with Muhammad bin Qasim. Others, such as Professor Kakar Hussain and Dr. Wazir Agha, link it to the ancient civilizations of Harappa and Mohenjodaro. While these historical discussions are significant, this overview will focus on the literature produced post-1947, especially the progressive period from 1947 to the present.

Phases in Pakistani English Literature

Pakistani English literature can be categorized into three major periods, each of which reflects the changing political and social realities of Pakistan:

1. The Early Phase (1947–1970s)

The early phase of Pakistani literature in English, spanning the years from 1947 to the 1970s, was marked by a sense of fragmentation and confusion. This was the period immediately following independence, and many writers lived abroad, in exile or as expatriates. These early writers largely represented the elite class and grappled with themes such as partition, disillusionment, and identity crisis. Prominent writers of this period included Ahmad Ali, Shahid Suhrawardy, Zeb un Nisa Hamidullah, and Zulfiqar Ghose. The literature of this time largely reflected the struggles of Pakistan's nascent identity as a nation.

2. The Literary Awakening (1970s–1980s)

The 1970s and 1980s marked a period of renewed literary enthusiasm and fervor. This era witnessed the rise of prominent literary figures like Taufiq Rafat, Daud Kamal, Alamgir Hashmi, and Sara Suleri. The central themes of the literature during this time included political unrest, economic disparities, women’s rights, and resistance to military dictatorship. The poetry of this era, in particular, flourished, with writers experimenting with Pakistani idioms and language. Taufiq Rafat’s iconic poem Arrival of the Monsoon became a key symbol of this cultural literary renaissance. The works from this period began to integrate distinct Pakistani cultural elements with English literary forms, signaling a shift towards a more localized form of English literature.

3. The Contemporary Phase (1990s–Present)

The 1990s and onward saw the blossoming of Pakistani literature in English. Writers began to explore broader themes such as technology, urbanization, the struggles of the middle class, and global interconnectedness. With the increased use of the internet, access to global literary networks, and greater freedom of expression following the fall of military regimes, Pakistani literature in English entered an exciting phase of innovation and creativity. Authors such as Mohsin Hamid, Kamila Shamsie, Moniza Alvi, and Muhammad Hanif gained international acclaim. The themes explored by writers from this period are more varied, touching upon global concerns, identity politics, and personal narratives, reflecting the dynamic changes in Pakistani society.

Genres in Pakistani English Literature

The genres of poetry, fiction, drama, and short stories have each played their part in shaping the landscape of Pakistani literature in English.

Poetry

Poetry holds a special place in Pakistani literature in English. Unlike fiction, which evolved later, poetry was the first genre to see significant growth in the country. The post-colonial poetic tradition in Pakistan was shaped by a fusion of native and foreign influences, leading to a style characterized by precision and deep emotional resonance. Writers such as Taufiq Rafat, Daud Kamal, Alamgir Hashmi, and Muneeza Naqvi became iconic figures. Their poetry, steeped in themes of political and social change, also reflects the challenges of forging a national identity.

Rafat’s Arrival of the Monsoon is perhaps one of the most renowned examples of this era. His poetry explored themes of love, nature, and social upheaval, using the English language in a uniquely Pakistani way. Similarly, Daud Kamal’s work, such as Compass of Love, also established him as an important poet, using modernist techniques to narrate personal and societal struggles.

Fiction

Fiction in English began to gain recognition in Pakistan later in the 20th century. While Mumtaz Shahnawaz was the first to write a novel in English with The Heart Divided (1948), it was authors like Bapsi Sidhwa, with her works The Ice-Candy Man (1988) and Cracking India, who truly put Pakistani fiction on the international map. Other notable novelists, such as Mohsin Hamid (The Reluctant Fundamentalist), Kamila Shamsie (Burnt Shadows), and Muhammad Hanif (A Case of Exploding Mangoes), explored themes ranging from the political turmoil of Pakistan to the challenges of identity in a post-colonial world.

Drama

Drama in Pakistan has not enjoyed the same level of popularity as poetry or fiction, primarily due to conservative cultural norms. Nonetheless, there have been important contributions to the genre. Early dramas were few and far between, with Fyzee Rahamin’s Daughter of India (1937) standing out as one of the few pre-Partition works in the genre. However, the 1980s saw a rise in interest in theatre, with playwrights like Nasir Ahmad Faroqi and later Hanif Qureshi exploring issues related to class, identity, and social inequality in their plays.

Short Stories

Short stories have played an important role in the development of Pakistani literature in English. Writers such as Zaib un Nisa Hamidullah, who published The Young Wife and Other Stories (1958), are often credited with laying the foundation for the genre. Over time, other writers such as Aamer Hussein and Zulfiqar Ghose followed, continuing to explore themes of love, loss, and political instability.

Conclusion: The Future of Pakistani Literature in English

The history of Pakistani literature in English is one of evolution, adaptation, and self-expression. From its colonial roots to its post-independence development and the flourishing of contemporary voices, Pakistani English literature continues to grow in significance. While the early years were marked by confusion and identity struggles, subsequent generations of writers have managed to carve out a distinctive literary voice that is gaining recognition on the global stage.

As Pakistani writers continue to explore issues of identity, cultural heritage, and global interconnectedness, the future of Pakistani literature in English appears promising. With its unique blend of local culture, history, and global influences, Pakistani literature in English is poised to contribute significantly to the world literary tradition.

Credit: Written by MSM Yaqoob