As suggested by my choice of epigraphs, I consider writing and storytelling as chances to imagine concepts, oneself, or life differently. This also applies to the writing of this book which has been an eyeopener in more than an academic sense. While it has been challenging at times, I am grateful for having had the opportunity to “conquer” new spaces and “to go beyond my own predicaments.”

I would like to thank the Association of Canadian Studies in German-Speaking Countries as well as the Verein der Ehemaligen der Universität Konstanz for their generous printing subsidy, and the Robarts Centre for Canadian Studies at York for a summer grant which enabled me to do research for this monograph and which made possible many intriguing talks with Canadian academics. I especially want to thank Dr. Barbara Godard for her inspiring criticism and suggestions on how to approach the topic of gender and narrative. I am grateful to Professor Reingard M. Nischik for stimulating talks and factual advice. Thanks are also due to Lisa Roebuck and Florian Freitag for proofreading as well as to my friends for many intriguing discussions, critical readings, and for seeing me through this with encouragement and understanding.

All translations of German quotations are mine unless indicated otherwise.

C.R.

October 2002