Strefa w Polsce przemilczana. Wskazówki dotyczące wschodnioniemieckiej literatury okresu „przemiany”

Abstract

German literature has been present in Polish cultural reality for a long time − although with variable popularity − due to the translations that produced Polish versions available for wider audience, including readers unfamiliar with German language. Yet, the article discusses a branch of German literature still absent in Poland – the so-called Post-GDR Literature, written after the fall of the German Democratic Republic and the German reunification. The Post-GDR Literature addresses a variety of issues related to the GDR, idealizes or critically describesits reality often perceived by writers as the reality of their childhood or youth. The author of the article takes into consideration the fact that on Polish book market after 1989 this literature is almost unavailable despite numerous efforts of translators and publishers and their initiatives aimed at popularization of German literature in Poland. Thus, the article subsequently discusses texts (Was bleibt by Christa Wolf, Der Abspannby Hermann Kant and Heldenwiewir by Thomas Brussig) significant enough to deserve unabridged Polish versions. The three writers represent different genres, aesthetics, generations and level of involvement in political activity. Nonetheless, their works all inspired crucial discussions, attitudes or events and are therefore of vital importance for Polish readers willing to fully understand the reality of Eastern Germany and the impact of its legacy on current times.