SRI LANKAN ENGLISH LITERATURE

The adoption of the British language had a profound and widely recognized impact on Sri Lanka. Presently, Sinhala and Tamil are the two official languages in the country, while English serves as the link language and is recognized as the official language in the corporate world. Despite Sinhalese having certain terms resembling Dutch and Portuguese, it is English that has left a lasting impression on all aspects of people's lives.

In Sri Lanka, English is taught in all schools alongside the native languages, and children are expected to attain proficiency in English. Sri Lanka English (SLE) has its roots in British English, with influences from various occasions and motivations for the native speakers of Sinhala and Tamil to use English. While SLE is widely accepted in the country, many speakers still tend to follow the British accent and the origins of English, even in literature. The influence of British English can be observed in the pronunciation, legalization, and norm system of the vernacular language, and it holds a prominent position in literature as well.

During British rule in Sri Lanka, particularly during the Kandyan kingdom, their control was relatively straightforward and uncomplicated. Ceylon, as it was known then, became a royal colony, and the island was united under a single government during the Kandyan war of 1815.

The English language had a significant impact on the culture and languages of Sri Lanka due to British control. This influence resulted in the emergence of specific linguistic characteristics when English is used, which need to be duly emphasized.

Moreover, the effect of English on the Tamil and Sinhala languages is a notable aspect. The socio-cultural, political, and economic dominance of a language can be determined by its influence, and the actions of the colonial rulers brought about various transformations in the position of local languages and the overall linguistic behavior of the people. The collision of native languages and cultures with Portuguese, Dutch, and English gave rise to Western influences on lifestyle and culture.

LIST OF SRI LANKAN WRITERS

• Gunadasa Amarasekara
• Chandraratna Bandara
• Sugathapala de Silva
• Siri Gunasinghe
• Eric Illayapparachchi
• P.B Jayasekara
• K. Jayatillake
• Piyasena Kahandagamage
• Sirilal Kodikara
• Munidasa Kumaratunga
• Sunanda Mahendra
• Simon Navagattegama
• Mahanama Rajapaksha (Maya Ranjan)
• Ediriweera Sarachchandra
• Mahagama Sekara
• G. B. Senanayake
• W. A. Silva
• Sybil Wettasinghe
• Martin Wickramasinghe

LIST OF SRI LANKAN POETS AND POETESSES

• Eric Illayapparachchi
• Gunadasa Amarasekara
• Gurulugomi
• H. M. Kudaligama
• Kumaratunga Munidasa
• Lucien Bulathsinhala
• Mahagama Sekara
• Meemana Premathilake
• Parakrama Kodituwakku
• P. K. D. Seneviratne
• S. Mahinda Thero
• Sagara Palansuriya
• Saman Tilakasiri
• Siri Gunasinghe
• Sunil Ariyaratne
• Thotagamuwe Sri Rahula Thera
• Wimalaratne KumaragamA

LIST OF SRI LANKAN PLAYWRITES

• John de Silva
• Ediriweera Sarachchandra
• Sugathapala de Silva
• Sunanda Mahendra
• Simon Navagattegama
• Dayananda Gunawardena
• Henry Jayasena
• Dhamma Jagoda
• Namel Weeramuni

SRI LANKAN ENGLISH LITERATURE

1. Sri Lankan literature encompasses a rich and diverse body of literary works that reflect the cultural, historical, and social aspects of the island nation. From ancient epics and religious texts to modern novels and poetry, Sri Lankan literature showcases the unique perspectives and experiences of its people.

2. The literary tradition of Sri Lanka is deeply rooted in its rich heritage and multicultural society. It encompasses various genres, including folk tales, myths, and legends that have been passed down through generations. These stories often explore themes of love, bravery, and morality, providing insights into the values and beliefs of the Sri Lankan people.

3. Sri Lankan literature also reflects the country's complex history, including its colonial past and struggles for independence. Many writers have used their works to shed light on the social and political issues faced by the nation, addressing topics such as identity, inequality, and the impact of war.

4. One notable aspect of Sri Lankan literature is its linguistic diversity. The country is home to multiple languages, including Sinhala, Tamil, and English, each with its own literary traditions. This linguistic diversity has contributed to a vibrant literary scene, with writers expressing themselves in their respective languages and bridging cultural gaps through translation.

5. Sri Lankan literature has gained recognition both locally and internationally, with several authors receiving prestigious awards and accolades. The works of writers such as Martin Wickramasinghe, Michael Ondaatje, and Shyam Selvadurai have garnered critical acclaim and brought Sri Lankan literature to a global audience.

6. In recent years, Sri Lankan literature has also embraced contemporary themes and experimental forms of storytelling. Younger generations of writers are exploring new narrative techniques and addressing pressing issues such as globalization, urbanization, and environmental concerns.

7. Overall, Sri Lankan literature is a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and its people's resilience. It offers a window into the diverse experiences and perspectives of Sri Lankans, providing a deeper understanding of the nation's history, society, and aspirations.

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HISTORY OF SRI LANKAN LITERATURE

The history of English literature in Sri Lanka is a fascinating subject that showcases the influence of British colonialism on the island's literary landscape. This rich history dates back to the 19th century when the British established their presence in Sri Lanka. During this time, English became the language of administration and education, leading to the emergence of a new literary tradition.

Sri Lankan English literature reflects the unique cultural blend of the island, combining elements of British literary traditions with local themes and perspectives. It encompasses a wide range of genres, including poetry, novels, short stories, and plays. Notable Sri Lankan authors such as Michael Ondaatje, Romesh Gunesekera, and Shyam Selvadurai have gained international recognition for their works, which often explore themes of identity, post-colonialism, and the complexities of Sri Lankan society.

The history of English literature in Sri Lanka also highlights the resilience and creativity of Sri Lankan writers who have navigated the challenges of writing in a language that is not their mother tongue. It is a testament to the power of literature to transcend linguistic and cultural boundaries, providing a platform for Sri Lankan voices to be heard on a global stage. The study of Sri Lankan English literature offers valuable insights into the country's colonial past, its cultural heritage, and the ongoing evolution of its literary traditions.

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