4.4.1 Writers and Musicians

Artists give Canadians something to be proud of, and their record of achievement is a long one. They come from every region of the country. Their work mirrors the culture, gives it shape, and shapes how people express themselves creatively. Many have reached the top at home and in other countries too. Writing shows this clearly. Both English and French literature in Canada owe a great deal to Canadian writers. Poets, novelists, educators, historians and musicians have all left a deep mark on the national culture.

Some names are worth remembering. Among the men and women of letters are Stephen Leacock, Louis Hemon, Sir Charles G.D. Roberts, Pauline Johnson, Emile Nelligan, Robertson Davies, Margaret Laurence and Mordecai Richler. In music, Sir Ernest MacMillan and Healey Willan won fame inside Canada and abroad. Later writers widened the picture again. Joy Kogawa, Michael Ondaatje and Rohinton Mistry brought new voices and new experiences into the country's literature.