Nobody cares much about arguing about the canon. Teach standard authors, and in the appropriate classes slip in the unusual writer. Be prepared to help develop a class at moment's notice, when the university to which most of your students transfer changes ITS curriculum. Do not assume you have control over your curriculum. Do not resist.
Resistance is futile.
If Cal State Chico or UTEP devises an international cultures requirement, start thinking in a foreign language. Don't talk about research. Talk about your breadth of teaching experience first. Talk about your familiarity with contemporary issues in teaching and learning, and how you've resolved some issues in your own classroom. Talk about your desire to teach in a cc to be on the cutting edge of applying learning theory.