7. “The West-East Draught”: Contemporary Novel and Its Contribution to the Value Debates in Slovak Society

This chapter delves into the intricate relationship between contemporary Slovak literature and the evolving debates on national identity and value orientation in Slovak society. It highlights the pivotal role of literature in reflecting and influencing societal values, particularly in the context of Slovakia's geopolitical positioning between the West and the East. The analysis focuses on the works of Irena Brežná and Pavel Vilikovský, exploring how their novels address themes of expatriation, cultural identity, and the complexities of Slovak society's relationship with Western Europe. The chapter also examines the broader implications of these literary works, discussing how they contribute to the ongoing discourse on national identity and the search for value orientation in a rapidly changing societal landscape. Through a detailed examination of these literary works, the chapter offers insights into the ways in which contemporary Slovak literature engages with and critiques the societal and political realities of the country, providing a nuanced understanding of the role of literature in shaping national identity and cultural values.