gideon diego

1960’s Africa was a time for new possibilities. The shackles of colonialism had fallen. African societies were gearing themselves up towards self-determination. And now nationalism, something that was once considered rebel talk for the streets, had become the main topic of discussion in all sectors of civil society. Doors that were once closed had now opened. But amidst these budding prospects one important question remained – who will lead us into the new dispensation? 

There were a couple of good books I read and films I watched in 2023. Many of them were forgettable.                 

I was first introduced to Chinua Achebe when I listened to a reading of his poignant poem, Refugee mother and child. At the time I was just a naïve teen. The name Achebe never even stuck out to me. But what remained with me was the vivid imagery he had crafted with his words. Achebe has a way of sticking with you, even if it is only through words. And an excellent example of his ability to stick with you comes from his seminal work, Things Fall Apart. Yet, what more can be said about this novel that hasn’t been said already. It is the staple of many curriculums in Africa. It is accepted by many around the world as the quintessential African novel. And at times it appears as if its reputation precedes it.