WITH ITS DEEP ROOTS in Eastern European Jewish culture, Yiddish has endured the test of time and continues to thrive in the literary world. Contemporary Yiddish-language writers play a vital role in preserving and promoting this rich linguistic tradition, breathing new life into a language that has captivated generations. Here is a selection of contemporary Yiddish writers who are contributing to the ongoing vitality of Yiddish literature.
Itzik Gottesman
A prominent folklorist, linguist, and poet, Itzik Gottesman is an advocate for Yiddish culture and has contributed to its preservation through his research, translations, and original compositions. His work often focuses on the folklore and traditions of Eastern European Jews, exploring themes of memory, identity, and loss.
Gitl Schaechter-Viswanath
As a Yiddish poet, translator, and editor, Gitl Schaechter-Viswanath plays a significant role in the contemporary Yiddish literary landscape. Her poetry is infused with themes of family, faith, and the complexities of modern Jewish life. Schaechter-Viswanath is also the editor of the modern Yiddish literary journal, Yidishe Heftn.
Yermiyahu Ahron Taub
Yermiyahu Ahron Taub is an American Yiddish poet and author who explores themes of identity, spirituality, and family in his work. His bilingual collections of poetry showcase his commitment to Yiddish language and culture, offering readers an opportunity to engage with contemporary Yiddish literature.
Rokhl Kafrissen
As a playwright, journalist, and cultural critic, Rokhl Kafrissen explores themes related to Yiddish language, history, and culture in her work. Kafrissen's play, "Shtumer Shabes" (Silent Sabbath), examines the impact of World War II on Yiddish-speaking communities and the resilience of Yiddish culture in the face of adversity.
Miryem-Khaye Seigel
Miryem-Khaye Seigel is a Yiddish poet, singer, and performer who actively contributes to the preservation and promotion of Yiddish language and culture. Seigel's poems explore themes of love, family, and faith, reflecting her passion for Yiddish literature and the language itself.
Boris Sandler
Boris Sandler, a novelist, essayist, and journalist, has been an influential figure in the world of contemporary Yiddish literature. As the former editor of the Yiddish Forward newspaper, Sandler has played an essential role in the promotion and dissemination of Yiddish writing, in addition to his own prolific literary output.
Velvl Chernin
Velvl Chernin is a Yiddish poet, essayist, and editor. His works, exploring themes such as religion, tradition, and identity, resonate with contemporary readers and serve as an essential part of the ongoing Yiddish literary conversation.
Ber Kotlerman
An Israeli writer, scholar, and translator, Ber Kotlerman has made significant contributions to the field of Yiddish literature. His works, which often focus on the Jewish experience in the Soviet Union, add depth and nuance to contemporary Yiddish writing.
Leyzer Burko
Leyzer Burko, a Yiddish poet and literary critic, has published several poetry collections that reflect his unique voice and perspective. His writing, which addresses themes of identity, love, and faith, adds a contemporary dimension to the Yiddish literary canon.
Anna Shternshis
Anna Shternshis is a scholar, Yiddishist, and the creative force behind the "Yiddish Glory" project, which resurrected lost World War II-era Yiddish songs. Through her work, Shternshis not only preserves the Yiddish musical tradition but also brings it to life for contemporary audiences.
