Breaking Barriers And Shaping Voices: The Pioneering Role Of Laila Al-Othman In The Modern Kuwaiti Arabic Novel

Abstract

This paper examines the transformative contributions of Laila al-Othman to the evolution of the modern Kuwaiti Arabic novel. As one of the earliest and most influential female voices in Kuwaiti and Gulf literary circles, al-Othman has played a crucial role in breaking societal and literary barriers, providing unprecedented depth and visibility to women’s experiences in Arabic fiction. Through bold narrative choices, innovative storytelling, and unflinching engagement with taboo subjects, such as gender inequity, family oppression, and personal liberation, al-Othman’s novels construct a vibrant space for marginalized voices and redefine the contours of Kuwaiti narrative art. The paper explores how her works, from Imra’a fî Inâ’a and Wasmiya Comes Out of the Sea to later novels, have broadened the thematic and stylistic possibilities for Kuwaiti literature, challenging cultural conventions and inspiring a new generation of writers. Additionally, it considers al-Othman’s wider cultural impact, including her advocacy for young literary talent and her texts’ global resonance through widespread translation. By centring her pioneering contributions, the study highlights the enduring significance of al-Othman’s oeuvre in forging a more inclusive, dynamic, and representative modern Kuwaiti novel.