Description
Book SynopsisExamines the role of literature in building states and citizens.
Trade ReviewThomas (Univ. of California, Los Angeles) analyzes the sociopolitical and literary scene in the sub-Saharan regions of the Francophone world during the late 1960s and the nascent 21st century. He chose the Congo to make his point, because it provides a striking model for the exploration of nationalism and postcoloniality. The study delineates a framework that considers the political and ideological consequences of structural literary works that are not in accord with the policies of the local government in power. The author distinguishes between the diverse writers who adhered to the Marxist-Leninist party line and those who adamantly insisted on maintaining an autonomous stance. The latter—among them the prolific playwright Emanuel Dongala and novelist Sony Labou Tansi—were censored, prosecuted, and forced into exile. A concluding chapter delves into the attempt to reconcile the various factions, the trend toward a multiparty system, and constitutional reform associated with postindependence initiatives. Although Thomas's book is bound to open new vistas of inquiry, its complexity limits its accessibility. Summing Up: Recommended. Colleges and universities with strong departments of Francophone studies serving graduate students, researchers, and faculty.
-- R. Merker * Choice *
. . . Thomas's book is bound to open new vistas of inquiry . . . Recommended. June 2003
* Choice *
Table of ContentsPreliminary Table of Contents:
Preface and Acknowledgments
Note on Translations
List of Abbreviations and Acronyms
1. Introduction: Engineering History and Engineering Literature
2. Official Writers: The Engineers of the Congolese Soul
3. Sony Labou Tansi: Commitment, Oppositionality and Resistance
4. Henri Lopes: Collaboration, Confession and Testimony
5. Emmanuel Dongala: History, Memory and Reconciliation
6. National Conferences and Media Decentralization in Francophone Africa
Notes
Bibliography
Index
