The series #Vorzeichen seeks to practice canon critique through its focus on reading as a means for revealing and dismantling power structures. In doing so, the emphasis shifts not only on to whom or what we read, but also how we do so. Reading practices that center empathy, engagement, activism, and solidarity are also expressions of one’s own politics. Social media provides alternate platforms for reading and talking about literature in which chats, comments, or other informal exchange facilitate new and different interpretations and engagements with a text.
Yeama, Armin, and Charlott were the winners of our open call a few weeks ago. Yeama is especially interested in writing by Black authors in German-speaking regions, Armin currently finds texts about memory and gaps in memory particularly intriguing and Charlott has a strong emphasis on literature of marginalized groups. In the upcoming months Armin, Charlott, and Yeama will share their reading experiences with us and, as part of the #Vorzeichen series, they will write very personal book reviews for you.