Emergence of modern African literature and the fraternity of gifted African writers
Writing is a powerful way to express the mind. It is a powerful instrument of thought. It is interesting to note in this context that writing is considered by most people to be an act of the hands. In fact, it is our mind that really allows us to compose or write. Through the act of writing, one reiterates one’s ideas to the audience. It proves to be an effective tool for initiating and engaging members of the public in civic discourse. It is also useful in developing social networks. Writing also helps people reflect on their experiences, supporting both personal and spiritual growth. The aesthetic joy and satisfaction that writing provides cannot be denied at all costs. The effort that goes into writing helps to bond with strangers and cement human relationships.
Education proves to be useful to society in more ways than one. It not only lifts the curse of illiteracy, but also contributes to the foundation of an enlightened society based on knowledge and skill. Only an educated society is capable of appreciating the aesthetic contributions that writers make to humanity. The African continent has a long and impressive literary history. Unfortunately, the mainland is more popular due to its incredible wilderness and primitive way of life. Only a handful of people really care about the rich literary heritage that the region possesses.
Literature has existed in Africa since historical times, albeit in oral form. Oral literature in Africa dates back hundreds of years and existed in the form of myths, epics, proverbs, dirges and poems. Perhaps due to the high rate of illiteracy in the society, oral literature was unable to flourish in written form before the Celtic and Germanic languages reached the shores of Ethiopia. On the other hand, waves of Islamic conquest reached the continent sometime in the 7th century. During this phase, African literature was severely dominated by Arabic languages and literature.
However, modern African writers and poets have begun to claim the limelight only in recent times. Colonialism and missionary activities throughout the continent during the 18th and 19th centuries exposed the people of Africa to modern European languages, primarily English, French, and German. The 20th century saw a number of African nations emerge from the chains of colonialism. It was during this time that a number of talented and powerful African authors and poets began to come into the spotlight on the world literary stage.
The Nigerian Authors Association (ANA) was established in 1981 with the aim of promoting and preserving the literary heritage of Nigeria, as well as that of the entire African continent. Since its inception, the ANA has greatly contributed to exposing Africa’s literary heritage to the world community. The contemporary genre of African poets and authors is more committed to depicting the socio-economic conditions of the society in which they live. Indeed, the talented fraternity pulls double duty as dedicated political activists and sensitive literary geniuses. These talented souls have an ever-expanding reader base that covers every corner of the globe. These people are showing a different Africa, which the world in general is not used to.