Decolonizing Literature

Written by Opeyemi Solaru, co-founder of Sisters & Stories

African literature is a matchless gem in the realm of all literature. The combination of nostalgia and discovery that is birthed as you read it is unrivaled. Whether to uncover the depths of obscurity or to bask in its beauty, reading African literature is instrumental in the preservation of culture. As Angelo Lorenzo so aptly states, “literature serves as a reflection of reality, a product of art, and a window to ideology.” However like many aspects of African life, the residual impact of colonialism still lingers in African literature.

In Chinua Achebe’s essay “Colonialist Criticism,” he attacks those that continue to critique African literature through the distorted lens of colonialism. Achebe identifies that despite Africans creating art as a display and protection of its history, culture and beliefs, it still falls under the scrutiny of Western eyes that criticize works that were not made for their approval or acclaim.

Decades later, Adaobi Nwaubani discusses how the West still grips Africa’s literature industry in her New York Times article “African Books for Western  Eyes.” One striking point she makes is that “success for an African writer still depends on the West.” This mindset perpetuates the notion that Africans must seek validation from Westerners, even down to our cultural expression. Why is it that African literature must fit the template of European/American literature, despite the fact that it’s not actually for them? This unfortunate reality makes one question who this literature is reallymeant to appeal to.

While some authors may define “success” as having the liberation to share their most complex discoveries, many dream of landing a contract that would allow for their story to transcend time and geographical borders. This is where publishers come in. As the “gatekeepers” of how lots of African literature is published, book publishing houses in places like London and New York have major influence in what African stories are deemed worthy of acclaim, and eventual commercial success. This is as problematic as it is frustrating, considering the amount untapped potential within the literary realm that exists. Furthermore, many African publishers lack the infrastructure and finances to appropriately manage the publishing, marketing and distribution processes of books.

Fortunately, this challenge is being addressed by several digital and physical publishing houses across the continent. Okechukwu Ofili ,founder of the digital Nigerian publishing company, Okada Books, has discussed how the hardship faced as a writer pushed him to create resources that writers like him could use. Other African publishers that promote African writing are Afram Publications (Ghana), Kwela (South Africa) and eKitabu (Kenya). Worldreader, a nonprofit that aims to improve access to eBooks in underserved communities, has successfully reached 162 publishers in Sub-Saharan. They have also donated $2 million to expand the digital libraries of publishers in Sub-Saharan Africa, India, and Jordan.

Along with acknowledging the role of said “gatekeepers,” I still realize that I need to check in my own mindset. As an avid reader, I find myself reading reviews or looking to sources that I consider “reputable” before deciding to read a book. While this in and of itself is not necessarily a problem, it can be difficult for these decisions not to have some subtle Western influence. Yes, being a New York Bestseller is amazing, but what about those authors that won’t get that opportunity? Although I love the work of Chimamanda Adichie and Yaa Gyasi, it would be unfair to ignore how their commercial and critical acclaim from western publishers and readers alike have contributed greatly to their popularity. This is certainly a victory for African literature, but it is so important not to ignore the several other writers in Africa that may not be afforded the same resources that these women have. As we strive to ensure that future generations can revel in the richness, resilience and beauty of African literature, we must make a concerted effort not to perpetuate the same colonial mindset that dampens the impact of African writing. We deserve to read works about Africa written by Africans.

Here’s a list of book I recommend

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