East German literature refers to the body of work produced in the German Democratic Republic (GDR) from 1949 to 1990. It often reflected the political climate of the time, grappling with themes of socialism, identity, and the tension between state control and artistic freedom. Notable authors include Christa Wolf and Heinrich Böll, who explored the complexities of life under a totalitarian regime. The literature of this period was characterized by a mix of realism and allegory, as writers sought to navigate censorship and express dissent. Many works were published in East German publishing houses, which were state-controlled, leading to a unique blend of propaganda and genuine artistic expression.