Samtíðarsögur

Samtíðarsögur is an Icelandic term that translates to "contemporary stories" or "stories of our time." It refers to a literary genre that focuses on depicting the lives, experiences, and social realities of people living in the present day. This genre typically explores themes relevant to modern society, such as technology, relationships, urban life, globalization, and individual identity in a rapidly changing world.

The narratives within samtíðarsögur are often characterized by their realism and focus on psychological depth. Authors aim to create relatable characters and situations that resonate with contemporary readers. Unlike historical fiction that looks to the past, or speculative fiction that explores imagined futures, samtíðarsögur grounds its stories firmly in the here and now.

The style of samtíðarsögur can vary, but it often employs accessible language and straightforward storytelling. It can encompass a wide range of subgenres, including realistic fiction, social commentary, and personal essays that capture the zeitgeist. The primary objective is to reflect and engage with the present moment, offering insights into the human condition as it is experienced today. This genre plays a crucial role in Icelandic literature by providing a literary mirror to contemporary Icelandic society and its evolving cultural landscape.