Afrique sur Seine A New Generation of African Writers in Paris

Afrique sur Seine addresses the development since the 1950s of a new type of Francophone African novel created by first-generation black African authors living in France. Drawing parallels with other literatures like the beur and Antillean novels, Odile Cazenave examines how these authors, men and women, are parting from mainstream African literature, exploring more personal avenues while retaining a shared interest in the community of African emigrants. At a time when immigration is an important issue in France, and when post-colonial identity and culture is the object of still increasing interest and attention, Afrique sur Seine guides us through writing that surprises with its fresh insights into multiculturalism and integration.

Odile Cazenave is Visiting Associate Professor in French and Francophone Literature at Boston University.