Wole Soyinka Book order

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.

"A towering figure in world literature gives us a tour de force, his first novel in nearly one-half century: a savagely satiric, gleefully irreverent, rollicking, fictional meditation on how power and greed can corrupt the soul of a nation. ("You don't see things the same way when you encounter a voice like that."-Toni Morrison) In an imaginary Nigeria, a cunning entrepreneur is selling body parts stolen from Dr. Menka's hospital for use in ritualistic practices. Dr. Menka shares the grisly news with his oldest college friend, bon viveur, star engineer, and Yoruba royal, Duyole Pitan-Payne-the life of every party- who is about to assume a prestigious post at the United Nations in New York. It now seems that someone is determined that he not make it there. Neither Dr. Menka nor Duyole knows why, or how close the enemy is, how powerful. Chronicles from the Land of the Happiest People on Earth is at once a literary hoot, a crafty whodunit, and a scathing indictment of Nigeria's political elite. It is a stirring call to arms against the abuse of power from one of that country's fiercest political activists, who just happens to be a global literary giant"--.

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

“(InterInventions), it is the nastiest book I have ever written. It is so truthful that it hurts… it is my vengeance against public lies. It is not one of the butterfly books. No, it is not a butterfly book. “I want to draw blood (with it). I’m warning all of you, if you feel vengeful, read this book and you will be alright. It is like homoeopathic medicine,” Wole Soyinka said at the launch of the book.

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.

Fear emerges as a central theme in world politics as explored by Nobel Prize-winning author Wole Soyinka in this insightful work derived from the Reith Lectures. Drawing on his extensive experience as a human rights advocate, Soyinka delves into how fear influences governance, societal dynamics, and individual freedoms globally, offering a thought-provoking analysis of its implications for humanity.

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.