Final answer:
African writers commonly address post-colonialism and decolonization, challenging the legacies of colonial rule and exploring the search for postcolonial identity. Works by authors like Chinua Achebe and Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o shed light on cultural revival and the impact of colonialism on various aspects of society, including language, politics, and history.
Step-by-step explanation:
Common themes in the works of African writers often revolve around the impacts of post-colonialism and the process of decolonization. These themes explore the cultural, political, and social legacies of colonial rule and the struggle for a postcolonial identity. During the colonial period, African voices and narratives were largely suppressed or distorted through a colonial lens. Therefore, many postcolonial works focus on reclaiming history and culture from the perspective of those who experienced colonization.
For example, Chinua Achebe's works provide a critical examination of the cultural and societal changes resulting from colonial influence. His words could be summed up as a call to recognize and heal the wounds inflicted by colonialism through self-awareness and cultural revival. Similarly, the writings of Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o advocate for the importance of indigenous languages in reconstructing postcolonial societies. In the field of history writing, postcolonial perspectives argue that colonialism has significantly influenced how histories were written, often marginalizing non-Western narratives and perspectives.
Postcolonial literature also commonly addresses issues such as political instability, economic challenges, and social identity crises that many African states face due to the enduring effects of colonialism. By incorporating such themes, African writers not only critique the historical injustices but also intersect with broader discussions on race, identity, and agency, calling attention to the resilience and strength of postcolonial societies.