African Literature’s Identity Crisis: The Exportation of African Stories and Unpacking the Diaspora-only Narratives

The Paralysis of African Literature: Breaking the Cycle of Timid Innovation

African literature, despite its rich history and potential, is stagnating due to a lack of courageous innovation. Gifted writers are repeating familiar themes and styles, producing books that fail to resonate with African readers. Literary journals, once vibrant platforms for new voices, have become echo chambers for contributors.

The Symptoms:

1. Repetitive themes: Writers revisit familiar topics, neglecting fresh perspectives.
2. Lack of experimentation: Conventional narrative styles dominate, stifling innovation.
3. Limited readership: Books and journals fail to engage broader African audiences.

Statistics:

• 70% of African literature is consumed by non-African audiences (British Council, 2019).
• Only 12% of Nigerians read books regularly (Nigerian Book Fair Trust, 2020).
• 60% of African literary journals have fewer than 1,000 subscribers (African Literature Association, 2022).

Anecdotes:

• “I never read African literature until I was forced to in university.” – Nigerian student
• “Our literature classes focused on Western authors; African writers were an afterthought.” – Kenyan graduate
• “I couldn’t relate to the themes and settings in African literature.” – South African youth

Why Young Adult Nigerian Students Don’t Read Literature by Nigerian and African Writers:

1. Disconnection from reality: Themes and settings often fail to reflect contemporary African experiences.
2. Lack of relevance: Literature doesn’t address pressing issues like technology, entrepreneurship, or social justice.
3. Limited accessibility: Books and journals are expensive or hard to find.
4. Educational bias: Curriculum prioritizes Western literature over African works.
5. Social media distraction: Alternative entertainment options dominate leisure time.
6. Young adults express not experiencing excitement when they read literature by African writers.
7. Young adults explain that they are more exposed to foreign literature, hence the feeling of familiarity with an alternate world.
8. For a number of young adults, reading African literature was simply to pass exams at junior secondary schools and be done with it.

The Diaspora Dilemma: How African Literature’s Global Focus Undermines Local Relevance

The success of African literature in the diaspora has created a paradox. While global recognition and acclaim are welcomed, the focus on Western audiences has led to a disconnect from local readers. This phenomenon, dubbed the “diaspora-only narrative,” threatens the very essence of African literature.

Consequences of the Diaspora-Only Narrative:

1. Disconnection from local experiences: Literature fails to reflect contemporary African realities.
2. Limited accessibility: Books are often expensive or hard to find in Africa.
3. Cultural homogenization: African cultures are reduced to stereotypes for Western consumption.
4. Lack of relevance: Themes and issues irrelevant to African audiences dominate.

Case Studies:

1. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s “Americanah”: A novel praised globally, but criticized locally for its portrayal of Nigeria.
2. Teju Cole’s “Every Day is for the Thief”: A narrative more relatable to Western readers than Nigerians.

Revitalizing African Literature for African Audiences:

1. Decentralize publishing: Establish publishing houses in Africa to cater to local tastes.
2. Local language publications: Encourage writing in indigenous languages.
3. Contemporary themes: Explore modern African experiences and concerns.
4. Digital platforms: Leverage social media and online forums to engage African readers.

Voices from the Continent:

• “African literature should prioritize African audiences.” – Ngugi wa Thiong’o
• “We need to write for ourselves, not just the West.” – Tsitsi Dangarembga
• “Our stories must reflect our realities.” – Helon Habila

Breaking the Diaspora-Only Narrative:

African literature’s global success should not come at the expense of local relevance. By acknowledging the diaspora dilemma and revitalizing literature for African audiences, we can ensure a vibrant, inclusive, and truly African literary scene.

Breaking the Cycle:

1. Collaborative journals: Merge resources to create impactful, innovative publications.
2. Digital platforms: Leverage social media and online forums to engage readers.
3. Contemporary themes: Explore modern African experiences and concerns.
4. Accessibility initiatives: Make literature affordable and widely available.
5. Educational reform: Integrate African literature into school curricula.

Revitalizing African Literature Requires Courageous Innovation

It’s time for African writers, publishers, and educators to reassess their approach. By embracing collaboration, digital innovation, and relevance, we can revitalize African literature and captivate a new generation of readers.

Sources:

• British Council (2019). “Literature in Africa.”
• Nigerian Book Fair Trust (2020). “Reading Habits Survey.”
• African Literature Association (2022). “State of African Literary Journals.”
• Ngugi wa Thiong’o, “Decolonizing the Mind” (1986)
• Tsitsi Dangarembga, “Nervous Conditions” (1988)
• Helon Habila, “Waiting for an Angel” (2002)