National Book Awards: Embracing Global Perspectives in American Literature

As the National Book Awards prepares to celebrate its 75th anniversary on November 20, 2024, it's an opportune moment to reflect on the award's evolution, particularly its embrace of international perspectives in the 2010s. This shift signifies a broader recognition of the interconnectedness of global literature and the complex tapestry of American identity.

The reintroduction of the translated literature category in 2018, after a 35-year absence, marked a significant turning point. This decision aligns with the growing global recognition of translated works, as exemplified by the success of the International Booker Prize, which revamped its format in 2016 to equally honor authors and translators regardless of their nationality.

The 2010s saw National Book Award winners across categories reflecting an increasingly internationalist perspective. In fiction, Phil Klay's "Redeployment" (2014) explored American experiences through the lens of the Iraq War, while Sigrid Nunez's "The Friend" (2018) wove international cultural references into its New York setting. Notably, works by Louise Erdrich and Jesmyn Ward offered insights into the diverse "nations" within America, from Native American reservations to disenfranchised Black communities.

Nonfiction winners of the decade, including George Packer's "The Unwinding" (2013) and Ta-Nehisi Coates' "Between the World and Me" (2015), further interrogated the boundaries of American identity. These works, along with others by Ibram X. Kendi and Jeffrey C. Stewart, used the experiences of racialized Americans to bring the nation into sharper focus.

The role of translators in American literature gained prominence during this period. The poetry category, in particular, became a space where translator-poets thrived, with Arthur Sze winning in 2019. This trend continued into the 2020s with victories by Don Mee Choi and John Keene.

"To have a translated literature category is to acknowledge and honor the influence that international literature has had on American letters and American life. It declares to the world that the United States is a part of the global literary sphere, that it will make a place for us as we have made a place for it."

The inclusion of a translated literature category, while controversial to some, serves to acknowledge the influence of international literature on American culture. The inaugural winner in this revived category, Yoko Tawada's "The Emissary," translated by Margaret Mitsutani, exemplifies the internationalist spirit of the award.

However, challenges remain in achieving true diversity within the translated literature category. Analysis of nominees reveals a concentration of certain languages and a lack of representation from entire continents. Additionally, the underrepresentation of translators of color mirrors broader issues in the publishing industry.

As the National Book Awards enters its 75th year, it continues to evolve, reflecting the changing landscape of American literature and its place in the global literary sphere. The recognition of translated works and diverse voices within the American literary canon marks a significant step towards a more inclusive and internationally-minded celebration of literature.