Rédaction Africa Links 24 with babucarr balajo
Published on 2024-03-01 09:41:03
In recent times, the landscape of Gambian literature has seen a surge in the number of young individuals delving into publishing books as a means of self-promotion or a quick route to fame. The proliferation of book launches, often accompanied by extensive PR and marketing campaigns, has become a common sight in The Gambia. While the idea of enriching the country’s literary scene with quality and relevant publications is commendable, the reality is that not all books that hit the shelves meet these criteria. Mediocre publications often find their way into the public domain, perpetuating a culture of subpar content and lack of substance. What is even more concerning is the apparent lack of scrutiny from the Ministry of Basic & Secondary Education (MoBSE), which approves and incorporates these questionable publications into school curriculums.
The prevalence of aspiring poets and fiction writers in The Gambia has raised legitimate concerns about the state of Gambian literature. The focus on attaining fleeting fame and making quick profits through book launches and sales has overshadowed the importance of producing meaningful and significant literary works. The commodification of literature has led to a dilution of quality and a proliferation of amateurish writing that lacks depth and purpose.
It is crucial for stakeholders in the literary community, including writers, readers, and enthusiasts of quality literature, to address these challenges collectively. The current trajectory of Gambian literature, characterized by a wave of wannabe writers seeking instantaneous recognition, poses a threat to the integrity and legacy of the country’s literary heritage. While there are undoubtedly talented poets and authors in The Gambia who approach their craft with reverence and dedication, the influx of opportunistic individuals looking to capitalize on the popularity of book launches has undermined the sanctity of literature.
Established writers understand the importance of honing their craft through extensive reading and learning. They recognize the value of developing a rich vocabulary and a nuanced understanding of literary techniques before embarking on their creative journey. Respect for the norms and conventions of the literary world is paramount in producing works that resonate with audiences and endure the test of time.
The proliferation of self-proclaimed poets and authors in The Gambia, some of whom lack the foundational skills and knowledge required to produce compelling literature, is a cause for concern. The rush to publish superficial and hastily written works under questionable pseudonyms reflects a disregard for the art of storytelling and a lack of respect for the craft of writing. The erosion of quality in Gambian literature demands immediate attention and intervention from all parties involved in the promotion and preservation of literary excellence.
One effective approach to addressing these challenges is fostering a culture of honesty and transparency within the literary community. Book reviewers, editors, writers’ associations, and influential figures in the nation must provide constructive feedback and guidance to aspiring authors, helping them refine their skills and elevate the quality of their work. The process of editing, reviewing, and publishing a book requires expertise and experience, and should not be taken lightly or entrusted to unqualified individuals.
Young writers are advised to prioritize reading widely and studying the works of established authors to gain insights into storytelling techniques and narrative structures. By immersing themselves in the world of literature and learning from the masters of the craft, aspiring authors can cultivate the skills necessary to produce meaningful and impactful stories that resonate with readers.
In conclusion, the state of Gambian literature is at a critical juncture, with the need for a concerted effort to uphold the standards of quality and excellence in literary production. By nurturing a culture of honesty, integrity, and respect for the craft of writing, the literary community can overcome the challenges posed by the proliferation of mediocre literature and pave the way for a vibrant and thriving literary landscape in The Gambia.
Read the original article on The Standard
