Ngugi wa Thiong'o, a prominent Kenyan author, was forced to speak English during his schooling, facing punishment for using his native Gikuyu. This experience underscored the cultural repression prevalent in colonial Kenya. Ironically, he became known for writing influential works in Gikuyu, which highlighted local culture and themes. His novel 'Devil on the Cross,' penned while imprisoned, was crafted on toilet paper, reinforcing his commitment to African languages. His life and work illustrate the struggle against colonial language dominance and the importance of reclaiming linguistic heritage for identity and storytelling.
Ngugi wa Thiong'o faced corporal punishment for speaking his native Gikuyu instead of English in boarding school, illustrating cultural oppression and the struggle for language preservation.
His decision to write in Gikuyu, despite a career in English, signifies a profound reclamation of identity and culture, showcasing the power of language in storytelling.
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