5 Powerful Quotes From African Writers

The African continent has a vibrant literary scene whose roots stem back millenia, including oral literature, pre-colonial literature, colonial, and post-colonial literature. However, African literature is often ignored altogether or met with racist jibes and epithets. In spite of it all, African literature continues to flourish. Here are 5 powerful quotes from African writers. 

1. Chinua Achebe (No Longer At Ease) 

The impatient idealist says, 'Give me a place to stand and I shall move the earth.' But such a place does not exist. We all have to stand on the earth itself and go with her at her pace.

2. Malidoma Patrice Somé (Of Water and the Spirit) 

As long as we are not ourselves, we will try to be what other people are.

3. Jaachynma N.E. Agu (The Prince and the Pauper) 

Don't blow off another's candle for it won't make yours shine brighter.

4. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie (Americanah) 

Racism should never have happened and so you don't get a cookie for reducing it.

5. Yvonne Adhiambo Owour (The Dragonfly Sea) 

Words. They had the strength to shut doors that would never be opened in this lifetime.