Spiralism in Haitian Literature: the Chaos-Creation Cycle

Abstract

Spiralism is a literary, philosophical and artistic movement born in Haiti in the late 1960s under the oppressive regime of François Duvalier. This movement captures life in chaos and suggests a non-linear understanding of time and experiences. Embracing a fluid and interconnected perspective on existence and art, Spiralism expresses outrage at governmental tyranny and offers an unconventional narrative style that emphasizes the recurring cycles of time and experiences and repeating characters. Haitian writers have historically faced significant barriers to publication, which has contributed to the marginalization of Haitian literature in academic discourse. This thesis explores why and to what extent Haitian literature has been marginalized, beginning with an overview of the country's history in order to create the foundation for exploring Spiralism and Frankétienne, the most prominent of the movement's founders. It includes an analysis of Mûr à crever, considered the quasi-manifesto of Spiralism, and examines Frankétienne's literary techniques that intertwine chaos and creation and challenge the linear concepts of time and space. The final section of this thesis explores the enduring influence of Spiralism in contemporary Haitian literature. Through an analysis of two of Emmelie Prophète's novels, this thesis argues that Spiralism continues to resonate in today's works in the themes of exile, liminality and fragmentation. The spiral represents the cycling challenges of the Haitian people and the gradual but inevitable movement forward, reflecting their resilience, adaptability and enduring hope.