One of the topics in discussing literature emanating from the African continent is the use of language. Should we use the language of our former colonizers or should we use indigenous languages? This question of language is not only relevant in the field of literature but also relevant in the field of everyday life, for … Continue reading The fading use of indigenous languages in African households
Mukoma wa Ngugi: what decolonizing the mind means today
It has become a topic that is linked with the Kenyan writer Ngugi wa Thiongo. The relation between literature, language and colonialism. The topic has not been finished yet. His son Mukoma writes in this article about it. He harks back to the days that his father discovered the need to write in his mother … Continue reading Mukoma wa Ngugi: what decolonizing the mind means today
There are 2,144 African languages, using them in our universities will help, not hinder youth
In the world of African literature one of the recurring themes is the use of which language. Is a writer bound by a ‘colonial’ language? A language he learned at school, a language he perfected at university, but a language that often is his or her second or third language. The same theme applies to … Continue reading There are 2,144 African languages, using them in our universities will help, not hinder youth
Teaching with Arabic literature in translation
Would it be wonderful to know the original language of a book that you want to read? Recently I read a few books by a famous Egyptian writer. I cannot read Arabic.I have to flee to a translation. Fortunately I enjoyed the book very much. Many people find themselves in the same situation as I. … Continue reading Teaching with Arabic literature in translation
A Q & A with the isiZulu translator of George’s Secret Key to the Universe
A translator is a hidden force in the world of literature. The name of the translator will be mentioned, together with other technical information, preferably in very small print. Here are some questions and answers with a translator. His name is Phiwayinkosi Mbuyazi.
Die ware Taalstryd speel hom af
South Africa is a boiling pot with many ingredients like languages. Eleven languages have an offical position in this colourful country. One of these languages is the Afrikaner language. This language carries with it a historical burden due to the years of apartheid when the Afrikaner language was a ruling language. This language has its … Continue reading Die ware Taalstryd speel hom af
books touched by Africa 