Playwright Who Indicts The Tyrants (Press, 15 November 1986)

The "Observer" profile of Nigerian poet Wole Soyinka, published on 15 November 1986, highlights his remarkable life and literary contributions, especially following his Nobel Prize for Literature, making him the first African recipient. The article recounts Soyinka's audacious act in 1965, where he held a radio station at gunpoint to broadcast a message against the ruling politicians, showcasing his fearless stance against tyranny. This act aligns with his belief that silence in the face of oppression equates to death. Soyinka, born in Abeokuta and educated in English public schools and at Leeds University, has drawn extensively from Yoruba myths and Western literary traditions. His background instilled a cultural confidence that sets him apart from many black writers. He began his career in 1958 with the Royal Court Theatre, gaining invaluable experience that contributed to his recognition as a significant dramatist by the early 1960s. His plays often reflect the complexities of Nigerian society and the human experience, addressing themes of power, responsibility, and the struggles faced by individuals in modern Africa. Throughout his career, Soyinka has used his writings and public voice to challenge corruption and human rights abuses, often facing severe repercussions for his outspoken nature. He was imprisoned for 26 months during the Nigerian civil war and later placed under house arrest due to his criticisms of the electoral process. His works, including "The Man Died" and "Madmen and Specialists," reveal the dark realities of war and human conduct. Soyinka's current perspective on Nigeria is tempered by his disappointment with military regimes, including that of General Babangida, and he spends much of his time abroad. He is an influential figure in international theatre, holds a professorship, and enjoys a vibrant social life. While younger Nigerian writers admire his linguistic abilities and innovative use of symbolism, some criticise him for his perceived pessimism and individualistic approach. The article concludes by recognising Soyinka as a significant non-Anglo-Saxon writer who has enriched the English language with his imaginative power. His Nobel Prize serves as a catalyst for broader recognition of African literature within academic institutions and the literary world, although Soyinka himself remains an artist whose complexity may challenge the mainstream understanding of his work.

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