The Giant Of African Literature, Ngugi Wa Thiongo Dies 87

By Post Reporter

Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o, the renowned Kenyan writer, left an indelible mark on African literature. Born in 1936, during the twilight years of British colonial rule, Ngũgĩ’s life was a testament to his unwavering commitment to his craft and his people. His writing career spanned decades, during which he evolved from writing in English to embracing his native Kikuyu language.

Ngũgĩ’s works are characterized by their unflinching examination of colonialism, dictatorship, and the struggle for African identity. His early novels, “Weep Not, Child” and “A Grain of Wheat,” explored the impact of colonialism on individual lives, while his play “I Will Marry When I Want” landed him in prison. Despite the challenges he faced, Ngũgĩ remained a passionate advocate for African literature and languages.

I had the privilege of meeting Ngũgĩ during his time in London, where he would often visit the African Centre. I was struck by his warmth, humor, and friendliness, which belied his reputation as a socialist firebrand. Our conversations about literature were always stimulating, and he would often ask probing questions that would leave me introspective. One particular exchange stands out in my mind, where he asked about my reading habits and the influence of great authors on my writing.

Ngũgĩ’s love for literature was matched only by his passion for music. In his mid-70s, he began learning to play the piano, and his eyes would light up as he talked about mastering the works of Mozart, Chopin, and Bach. I vividly remember him playing a few notes on a piano in a Cambridge college hall, his face aglow with a sense of wonder and joy.

Throughout his life, Ngũgĩ remained committed to his art and his people. His writing continues to inspire generations of African writers and intellectuals. Despite his passing, his legacy lives on, a testament to the power of literature to shape our understanding of the world and ourselves. As a writer, a mentor, and a friend, Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o left an indelible mark on the literary world, and his memory will continue to inspire us for years to come.