Sri Lankan literature is rich and diverse, influenced by Indian literary traditions, notably Sanskrit and Pali literature, as well as Western literary traditions introduced during colonization.
The two main literary languages are Sinhala and Tamil, each with its own rich and distinct traditions. Here are some of Sri Lanka's iconic literary works and poems:
"The Kingdom of Ravana" (Ravana Rajya) by Martin Wickramasinghe: This novel, written in Sinhala, explores the themes of tradition, modernity and Sri Lankan identity through the story of a young man who returns to his native village after studying abroad.
“The Baila of Darkness” (Gamperaliya) by Martin Wickramasinghe: Another major novel by Wickramasinghe, it describes the social and political tensions in a society in transition through the story of a Sri Lankan family.
"The Lion People" (Sinhala: Sinhabahu) by Martin Wickramasinghe: This modern mythological drama explores the themes of fatherhood, individual freedom and the struggle between good and evil through the story of a king and of his son.
“The City of Light” (Sinhala: Premaye Pavan Salu) by Ediriweera Sarachchandra: This Sinhala play is one of the most famous works of modern Sri Lankan theater. It addresses questions of morality, power and spirituality through a love story.
“The Raven of Serendib” (Sinhala: Serendib Dandu) by Jean Arasanayagam: Collection of poetry by Jean Arasanayagam, a Sri Lankan poet of Tamil origin. His poems often explore themes of ethnic conflict, migration and identity.
“The Tempest” (Sinhala: Raban) by Mahagama Sekera: This Sinhala play is a Sri Lankan adaptation of “The Tempest” by William Shakespeare. It combines elements of local tradition with Shakespearean storytelling to create a unique work.
These works offer a glimpse into the richness and diversity of Sri Lankan literature, which continues to evolve and flourish with time. Besides the previously mentioned Martin Wickramasinghe and Ediriweera Sarachchandra, there are many other notable Sri Lankan writers. Among them are Mahagama Sekera, Jean Arasanayagam, Punyakante Wijenaike, Shyam Selvadurai, and many others.