Abstract

"World literature" has come of age. Its maturity calls for a world theory of literature. In this context, I will examine some important issues arising from Wang Ning's proposal for its conception and construction. Critically reviewing the historical movement from national literature to world literature and world poetics, this article addresses some fundamental issues including: Is it necessary to posit the concept of "world poetics"? If necessary, what is its nature? How should we conceive and define it? What paradigm should be adopted for its construction? How can we construct it in practical terms? What resources can we draw from existing scholarship?