Write a Compare and Contrast paper of the literary works of Epeli Hau'ofa, Emelihter Kihleng and Albert Wendt?

Epeli Hau'ofa, Emelihter Kihleng, and Albert Wendt are all prominent Pacific Islander writers whose works explore themes of identity, culture, and colonization. While each writer brings a unique perspective to their writing, there are also similarities and differences in their literary works.

One key similarity among these writers is their focus on the Pacific Islander experience and the impact of colonization on their cultures. Hau'ofa, in his seminal essay "Our Sea of Islands," challenges the Eurocentric view of the Pacific as a collection of isolated islands and instead presents a vision of interconnectedness and shared cultural heritage among Pacific Islanders. Kihleng, in her poetry collection "My Urohs," explores the complexities of identity and belonging as a Micronesian woman living in the diaspora. Wendt, in his novels such as "Sons for the Return Home" and "Leaves of the Banyan Tree," delves into the effects of colonization on Samoan society and the struggle for cultural preservation.

Despite these similarities, there are also differences in the literary styles and themes of these writers. Hau'ofa's writing is often characterized by its satirical tone and use of humor to critique colonial and postcolonial power structures. Kihleng's poetry, on the other hand, is more introspective and lyrical, exploring themes of memory, loss, and resilience. Wendt's novels are known for their epic scope and rich character development, offering a nuanced portrayal of Samoan society and history.

In terms of their contributions to Pacific Islander literature, Hau'ofa, Kihleng, and Wendt have all played a significant role in challenging dominant narratives and amplifying the voices of Pacific Islanders. Hau'ofa's work has been instrumental in redefining the Pacific as a dynamic and interconnected region, while Kihleng's poetry offers a deeply personal and intimate perspective on the Micronesian experience. Wendt, as a pioneering figure in Pacific literature, has paved the way for future generations of Pacific Islander writers to explore their own cultural identities and histories.

In conclusion, while Epeli Hau'ofa, Emelihter Kihleng, and Albert Wendt each bring a unique perspective to their writing, they all share a commitment to exploring the complexities of Pacific Islander identity and culture. Through their literary works, these writers have challenged colonial narratives, celebrated cultural heritage, and contributed to a richer understanding of the Pacific Islander experience.