Intensification of postmodern ideas
Shift from tolerance to angry rejection of difference
Tribalism and certainty replace epistemic humility
Emphasis on power and fear in political discourse
Post-postmodernism refers to a range of developments in critical theory, art, literature, and culture that emerge from and react to postmodernism. It seeks to transcend the irony and scepticism characteristic of postmodern thought, emphasising sincerity, faith, and dialogue. This movement often explores themes of authenticity and emotional engagement, contrasting sharply with the detachment found in postmodernism. Key concepts include:
New Sincerity: A cultural shift towards genuine expression and emotional depth.Â
Metamodernism: A sensibility oscillating between modernist ideals and postmodern scepticism, addressing contemporary issues like climate change and social justice.
Trans-: A prefix used to signify a rebirth of concepts like truth and originality, moving beyond the relativism of postmodernism.
Overall, post-postmodernism represents a synthesis that seeks to reclaim meaning and connection in art and culture. Post-postmodernism differs from postmodernism in several key ways:
Sincerity vs. Irony: While postmodernism is characterised by scepticism, irony, and a rejection of grand narratives, post-postmodernism seeks to reclaim sincerity and emotional engagement in art and culture.
Focus on Authenticity: Post-postmodernism emphasises authenticity and the importance of genuine expression, contrasting with the playful pastiche and parody common in postmodern works.
Constructive Dialogue: It encourages constructive dialogue about meaning and truth, moving beyond the relativism of postmodernism to explore new ways of understanding identity and culture.
Overall, post-postmodernism represents a shift towards re-establishing connections and values in a fragmented world. Post-postmodernism challenges traditional narratives by:
Reclaiming Sincerity: It emphasises genuine expression and emotional engagement, moving away from the irony and detachment typical of postmodernism.
Exploring Authenticity: Post-postmodern works often focus on authenticity and personal truth, questioning the fragmented identities prevalent in postmodern narratives.
Engaging with Grand Narratives: While postmodernism rejects grand narratives, post-postmodernism seeks to re-engage with them, exploring new interpretations and meanings rather than dismissing them entirely.
Emphasising Dialogue: It fosters constructive dialogue about identity, culture, and history, allowing for a more nuanced understanding of complex issues.
Overall, post-postmodernism aims to create connections and meaning in a fragmented world. Key thinkers and writers associated with post-postmodernism include:
David Foster Wallace: Known for works like Infinite Jest, he emphasised sincerity and complexity in contemporary life.
Zadie Smith: Her novels often explore identity, culture, and social issues with a blend of humour and depth.
Jennifer Egan: Notable for A Visit from the Goon Squad, employs innovative narrative structures to address modern themes.
Dave Eggers: His works, including A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius, reflect a new sincerity and engagement with personal and cultural narratives.
Chuck Palahniuk: Known for Fight Club, he critiques consumerism and explores identity in a postmodern context.
These authors challenge previous narratives by emphasising authenticity, emotional engagement, and social relevance.