Keywords

Galsan Tschinag, postcolonial theory, Mongolia, Tuva, Germany, Orientalism, nomad, the Other, Europe, Asia

Abstract

This presentation applies the theory and tools of postcolonial theory to the literary techniques and output of the Mongolian writer, Galsan Tschinag, who publishes most of his works in German. It focuses on literary mediation between Asia and Europe, especially Germany, as found in his poetry and prose. In secondary literature Galsan Tschinag has been called the corrective “polar reverse of an Orientalist;” an apologist for round stones in a culture of angular concrete; a wanderer between worlds; an ambassador for Tuva; a linguistic nomad; the poet as shaman; a phenomenon on German talk shows; the Tuvan Moses; a cultural nomad between East and West; the voice of his people, and similar appellations. While exoticism might explain part of his appeal, this paper illustrates literary and philosophical elements that help to subvert stereotypes and to promote cultural understanding.