Exploring Contemporary Trends of African Literature

Modern African literature is founded on the socio-political history of the continent, and as such it has passed through historical trajectories with prominent writers exploring the various situations of the region. The main objective of this study is to explore contemporary trends in West and East African literature, using textual analysis for a critical reading against the ideas of contemporary trends of African literature more broadly. The texts are purposefully selected based on their use of allegories and the degree of canonicity in capturing the national and cultural dimensions. Both of the authors examined here have exposed the political realities of Africa through their politically committed writing. Through his novel Starbook (2007), Ben Okri clearly reveals that the principle of pertinent and selfless devotion for the collective social will and social regeneration, as well as tranquillity and stillness, is vital for African society today. He suggests that courage, perseverance, and hard work are important to overcome the contemporary predicament of African nations. Similarly, Ngugi wa Thiong’o unveils the African nations’ socio-political crises in his novel Wizard of the Crow (2006) and advocates that unity of the people, selfless devotion of the younger generations, and negotiating with the African socio-cultural values are crucial for transformation of the continent.