Call for papers for international conference “What Makes Literature: Redefining Realism, Poetics, and Belonging”
The Institute of Literature, Folklore and Art of the University of Latvia invites researchers and scholars to submit proposals for the international conference “What Makes Literature: Redefining Realism, Poetics, and Belonging”, which will take place in Riga from 16 to 18 September 2026.
The conference aims to explore the evolving nature of literature and its role in shaping cultural identity, aesthetic expression, and the boundaries of belonging. Participants are encouraged to consider how literary forms—particularly realism and poetics—have reflected, constructed, or contested social, national, and ideological frameworks from the 19th century to the present.
Two overarching themes guide the conference discussions. The first addresses literature and poetics as dynamic fields through which notions of identity, inclusion, and tradition are continuously negotiated. The second focuses on realism as a multifaceted literary mode that responds to shifting cultural, historical, and political contexts, while intersecting with diverse narrative strategies and genres.
In addition, the conference will engage with the impact of digital technologies on literary creation, distribution, and reception, raising questions about the role of literature in the digital age.
Submissions are welcome under the following thematic streams:
- Mapping Realism: Psychological, Formal, and Spatial Trajectories
- Cross‑Border Poetics: Creation, Circulation, and Reception of Literary Forms
- Belonging and Its Discontents: Identity, Inclusion, and the Politics of Culture
- Digital Literatures and Reading Cultures in the 21st Century
Confirmed keynote speakers include Dirk Göttsche (University of Nottingham, Emeritus), Rosa Mucignat (King’s College London), and Riikka Rossi (University of Helsinki).
Researchers interested in participating are invited to submit an abstract of up to 300 words, indicating the chosen thematic stream (1–4), along with a short biographical note including institutional affiliation and contact information. Submissions should be sent to conferences@lulfmi.lv by 12 January 2026.
Applicants will be notified of acceptance by 12 March 2026, and the preliminary programme will be published by 31 May 2026.
The conference will take place in person in Riga, and the working language is English.
- For detailed information about the conference, please visit the official website HERE.