Abstract

This paper explores aspects of the literary status of Malagasy writers in the diaspora as well as the role of critics in relation to their literary productions. Two main points are discussed. Firstly, how does their identity as writers from the South influence/shape the their status as Malagasy writers living in the North? Secondly, how can we account for the entanglements of art and knowledge production? Based on conversations with Naivo, a Malagasy writer who has migrated to Canada, the paper shows, first and foremost, that being away from one’s native country certainly has several consequences for the writing process as well as for the writing career. Naivo offers valuable insights into the importance of the link between criticism and literary production particularly in the Malagasy context.