Nigeria Literary Scene Comes Alive at Abuja Book City Holiday Event
. . . Promoting Reading Culture and Literary Appreciation
By Precious Nwonu
. . . Promoting Reading Culture and Literary Appreciation
By Precious Nwonu
When Ikhide R. Ikheloa, a renowned literary critic and writer, posted on his Facebook wall: “African literature is suffering from a dearth of courageous innovation. Gifted, but timid writers are doing the same thing over and over again. Writing book after book after book that few read in Africa. We have scores of African literary journals that no one but the contributors read. Get over your pride and arrogance and collaborate to produce one truly powerful and innovative journal. No, we are not wired like that! SMH!”, he echoed a concern that LightRay Media has consistently highlighted: the need for an intentional and well-thought-out strategy to address the creative stagnation or literary drought sweeping across the African continent, particularly in Eastern, Western, and Southern Africa. Ejiro Umukoro expands on this critical issue.
By Ejiro Umukoro
Arts and the preservation of museums depicts how evolved a people are. History and culture are the stories of past civilizations and a projection of a civilisation that is also evolving to become.
In this special interview with renowned art collector and museum enthusiast, Prince Adedoyin Yemisi Shyllon, we delve into the social, economic and political value of arts and Museums for any given civilization.
The ‘Power of Your Book 2024’ showcases how empowering the voices of global authors in the disapora helps to unite and celebrate african literature and legacy
The African diaspora community, a global network of people of African descent living outside the continent, embodies a diverse array of cultures, histories, and identities. Today, this diaspora spans continents, making significant contributions to the arts, sciences, politics, and various aspects of society while maintaining a deep connection to their ancestral heritage.
Shaped by a complex history of migration, including the transatlantic slave trade, colonialism, and voluntary migration in search of better opportunities, the African diaspora community is characterized by its rich cultural heritage, resilience, and strong sense of identity. Across the globe, members of this community have made notable contributions to various fields, shaping the world we live in today.
Lady Umukoro’s book, ‘Distortion’, is a prime example of Afro-futuristic storytelling, offering a fresh perspective on African stories from an African lens. The book’s impact and significance in the diaspora community will be explored in this feature story.
The Power of Literary Influences: The undeniable force of literary influences shapes writers in profound ways. From childhood stories to classic novels, these formative experiences leave indelible marks on an author’s creative journey. Whether it’s the whimsical worlds of Roald Dahl or the poignant prose of Toni Morrison, these early encounters with literature mold a writer’s voice, themes, and style.
Acculturation and Mask-Wearing — the process of adapting to a new culture—often leads to complex identities. As individuals navigate cultural shifts, they may don metaphorical masks to fit in or protect themselves. These masks, however, can seep into their storytelling.
Writers grapple with the tension between authenticity and assimilation, resulting in narratives that sometimes feel strained or inauthentic. The struggle of writers’ block: Imagine a writer staring at a blank page, grappling with self-doubt and creative paralysis.
The weight of cultural expectations, personal history, and literary influences can contribute to this dreaded phenomenon known as writer’s block. The struggle to find one’s authentic voice amid societal pressures can be both isolating and frustrating.
Misunderstood Identities in Fiction and Non-Fiction sees writers often wrestle with portraying identities accurately. Misunderstandings arise when cultural nuances are oversimplified or misrepresented. Whether crafting fictional characters or penning memoirs, authors must navigate the delicate balance between universal truths and individual experiences. Authenticity matters, especially when addressing complex issues like colonization and identity.
Unveiling the Masks: “I Am Not Colonized” powerfully expressed by Lady E Ejiro Umukoro in a powerful webinar tagged: The Power of Your Book featuring international authors and publishers, bears upon our minds a clear rallying cry: “I am not colonized.” This call-to-action encourages writers to shed the masks imposed by history, society, and literary norms. By unveiling their true selves, authors can create narratives that defy stereotypes, challenge misconceptions, and celebrate diverse voices.
At LightRay! Media, we believe that every writer’s journey is unique, shaped by personal experiences, literary influences, and the courage to reveal their unmasked truth. Enjoy this special Power of Your Book 2024 Webinar.
To know thy woman, is to honour her.
For many, the word “cartoon” evokes caricatures that tend to prompt laughter when captured with creativity and punch.
However, journalists have come to understand that while a picture says a thousand words, cartoons evoke powerful emotions that inspire or trigger both intended and unintended outcomes.
Akin Lasekan is recognized as the first cartoonist in Nigeria, having worked with the West African Pilot newspaper. It’s interesting to note that in 1908, “Fantasmagorie,” considered by animation historians as the world’s first cartoon, was released.
As the power of cartoons evolved, they became established as a vital force within the political struggle to liberate Nigeria from British colonization.
Today, editorial journalism recognizes that sketching and cartooning deserve a prime spot in Nigeria’s educational development, as captured by Jimoh’s reporting for LightRay! Media.
In the age of AI and digital access to books, the reading culture and manner of book consumption continues to be a talking point. Audio books and video dramatisation or reading of books is now the rave. For eco-friendly champions, though, it would seem printed books is a clash on saving the trees and our planet.
What about mobile libraries? Will libraries survive this onslaught of digital natives and their consumers whose style of consumption of texts is different from hundreds of generations before them? That’s exactly what this edition on LightRay! Books and Literary Society focuses on.
By Ejiro Umukoro
When love alone is not enough. What you need to know about when to keep or walk away from a relationship that’s not serving you just as you’re not serving it.