Exploring Multilingualism in Contemporary Fiction: Narratives, Identities, and Cross-Cultural Dynamics

Abstract

This paper explores the role of multilingualism in contemporary fiction, analyzing how the use of multiple languages shapes narratives, constructs identities, and navigates cross-cultural dynamics. It investigates the ways in which authors employ multilingual elements as literary devices to reflect the complexities of a globalized world, going beyond mere representation to enhance the depth and authenticity of characters and settings. By examining a range of contemporary novels and short stories, the study highlights how multilingualism expresses cultural hybridity, challenges linguistic hierarchies, and addresses themes of belonging and exclusion. Additionally, it considers the impact of multilingual texts on readers, including their engagement, interpretation, and accessibility. The findings suggest that multilingualism in fiction can create a richer narrative space that mirrors the lived experiences of multilingual speakers and fosters empathy and cross-cultural understanding. Ultimately, this paper argues that multilingualism not only enriches contemporary literature but also reshapes narrative forms and broadens the horizons of both readers and writers.