Summary of "How Not to Write About Africa - Binyavanga Wainaina"
The video "How Not to Write About Africa" by Binyavanga Wainaina critiques common stereotypes and clichés used in writing about Africa. Wainaina humorously outlines a series of misguided artistic techniques and concepts that perpetuate a narrow and often negative view of the continent.
Key Artistic Techniques and Concepts:
- Clichéd Language: Use of terms like "Africa," "Darkness," and "Safari" in titles.
- Stereotypical Imagery: Avoid positive depictions of Africans unless they are highly celebrated figures (e.g., Nobel Prize winners).
- Exoticization: Emphasis on violence and poverty, with imagery of AK-47s, nakedness, and starvation.
- Simplistic Narratives: Portrayal of Africans as either tragic victims or exotic characters, lacking depth or history.
- Western Savior Complex: Implicit suggestion that Africa requires Western intervention to thrive.
- Animal Anthropomorphism: Treat animals as complex characters while depicting humans in a degrading manner.
- Clichéd Settings: Inclusion of stereotypical locations like nightclubs with a mix of negative elements (mercenaries, prostitutes).
- Ending with Hope: Conclude narratives with uplifting quotes from figures like Nelson Mandela to suggest redemption.
Steps and Advice:
- Always include negative stereotypes about African life.
- Describe African characters in a way that emphasizes their suffering or exoticism.
- Ensure animals are portrayed positively and as relatable characters.
- Use a tone that implies the need for Western intervention in Africa.
- Include vivid and often grotesque descriptions of violence and poverty.
Contributors:
Category
Art and Creativity
