How to write about Africa.

Literary magazine Granta published a particularly funny article a year and a half ago, and I’ve been telling people about it ever since. Best to share it here: “How to Write About Africa,” by Binyavanga Wainaina.

Published by Waldo Jaquith

Waldo Jaquith (JAKE-with) is an open government technologist who lives near Char­lottes­­ville, VA, USA. more »

4 replies on “How to write about Africa.”

  1. Wow. That’s incredible.

    Among other things, it really underlined the fact that I don’t know anything about Africa that isn’t a cheap journalistic stereotype.

  2. I have no knowledge of the subject matter whatsoever (other than all the mentioned cliches) and it’s still hilarious. Thanks for the link!

  3. Waldo,

    Thanks for posting the Granta article on how to write about Africa. Though written in jest, it rings true on so many fronts. Sadly, it reveals more about those who over romanticize (to put it charitably) in their coverage of Africa than I think most of us will/can understand.

    Great seeing you last weekend.

    -Adisa Chinua Muse

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