Writer's Block

Whether it’s through the official publications of our governments or the creative expressions of our authors, Canadian writing is underscored by central language issues that pose unique challenges — and opportunities — for Canadian writers. Highly politicized and unceasingly debated, language struggles are key manifestations of our greater interest in preserving and respecting the cultures to which they belong and the diversity of perspectives they communicate. In this issue, Lorie Boucher discusses the role of Aboriginal publishing in Canada with the founder of Kegedonce Press and Peter Zvalo explores the professional opportunities that accompany official bilingualism.

	Fertile Roots, Arid Soil: Aboriginal Writing’s Struggle to Thrive Lorie Boucher discusses language, diversity, appropriation, politics, and the future of Aboriginal publishing with Anishnaabe writer and publisher Kateri Akiwenzie-Damm.
	Official Bilingualism Has Its Costs—and Opportunities Peter Zvalo looks at Canada’s lucrative French translation industry.
	Sugaring Off Miss Hoopty and Delilah head for the sugar shack and discover that nothing crosses cultural barriers like syrup on a stick.
	The Broom A poem by Joanna M. Weston
	Questions and comments from our readers A comment on Corporate Speak.