Awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature, this author is celebrated for work that, with a wide cultural perspective and poetic overtones, fashions the drama of existence. His writing delves into profound existential questions with a distinctive style and depth. Through a unique ability to capture the essence of the human condition, his creations have become a significant contribution to world literature. Readers can anticipate engaging narratives that explore life's complexities.
Exploring the interplay between religion and national identity, this lecture series by Nigeria's first Nobel Laureate examines the diverse religions within Nigeria and their global counterparts. Soyinka provocatively argues that many belief systems treat the material world as a temporary phase, leading to a universal negation of existence. His insights challenge readers to reflect on the implications of faith and the concept of time, making this work both thought-provoking and relevant to contemporary discussions on spirituality and existence.
This book is currently out of stock with a ready about date of October 31, 1999.The Nobel Laureate's first novel spotlights a small circle of young Nigerian intellectuals living in Lagos.
Wole Soyinka, the first African Nobel Laureate in Literature and a dynamic political activist, presents a compelling chronicle of his tumultuous adult life in Nigeria, including his experiences in exile. This work serves as a significant continuation of his earlier memoir, Ake: The Years of Childhood, offering profound insights into his personal struggles and the socio-political challenges faced by his homeland. Through vivid storytelling, Soyinka reflects on his identity and the complexities of his relationship with Nigeria.
From the first Black winner of the Nobel Prize in Literature and one of our fiercest political activists—this political novel about the dangers of corruption, greed, and the desire for power is the follow-up to his acclaimed debut novel The Interpreters. An African nation's struggle for independence is interwoven with a tragic love story in this compelling novel. When Ofeyi, who writes advertising jingles for the Cocoa Corporation, is sent on a promotional tour of his unnamed country, he arrives at a coastal village whose remote location has long kept it insulated from the corrupt national government. Here Ofeyi discovers a traditional way of life that is still flourishing and he is inspired to spread its life-affirming values to his suffering country. But challenging the forces of greed and exploitation provokes a horrific response, and when Ofeyi’s beloved wife goes missing, he must travel across a war-scarred landscape in search of her. Infusing the myth of Orpheus with his signature lyricism and moral profundity, Soyinka creates a dazzling story about the clash between idealism and reality.
Wole Soyinka, winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature and one of the foremost
living African writers, here analyses the interconnecting worlds of myth,
ritual and literature in Africa.
The translation captures the essence of ancient Greek theater through a vibrant and rhythmic interpretation. Wole Soyinka transforms "The Bacchae" into a lively communal celebration, emphasizing themes of life, nature, and the human psyche. He portrays the narrative as a grand banquet that reflects humanity's connection to the earth and the cyclical nature of existence. This unique blend of Euripides' original work and Soyinka's poetic vision creates a powerful and unforgettable theatrical experience.
Wole Soyinka won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1986. In this volume the
plays are all concerned with the spiritual and the social; with belief and
ritual as integrating forces for social cohesion. Whether considering the
corruption of urban life or the power of superstition.
An intimate reflection on culture and tradition, creativity and power, that draws on a lifetime’s commitment to aesthetic encounterThe playwright, poet, essayist, novelist, and Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka is also a longtime art collector. This book of essays offers a glimpse into the motivations of the collector, as well as a highly personal look at the politics of aesthetics and collecting. Detailing moments of first encounter with objects that drew him in and continue to affect him, Soyinka describes a world of mortals, muses, and deities that imbue the artworks with history and meaning. Beyond Aesthetics is a passionate discussion of the role of identity, tradition, and originality in making, collecting, and exhibiting African art today. Soyinka considers objects that have stirred controversy, and he decries dogmatic efforts—whether colonial or religious—to suppress Africa’s artistic traditions. By turns poetic, provocative, and humorous, Soyinka affirms the power of collecting to reclaim tradition. He urges African artists, filmmakers, collectors, and curators to engage with their aesthetic and cultural histories.Published in association with the Hutchins Center for African & African American Research
