The Evolution of Nigerian Literature: Exploring Themes and Literary

Devices in Third-Generation Writers

The Nigerian literary landscape has undergone significant transformations since its inception. Third-
generation Nigerian writers have made a profound impact on the literary scene, exploring themes that
reflect the complexities of contemporary Nigerian society.

The third generation of Nigerian writers have experimented with different genres
and styles. The most prominent of the third generation of writers is conceived to
be Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, who started off with Purple Hibiscus. Another
is Okey Ndibe, whose debut novel Arrows of Rain "has been applauded as a faithful
representation of social consciousness and political activism that run through the
third-generation of Nigerian novelists". Helon Habila, whose Waiting for an
Angel has been said to be interwoven with that of Adichie's and Ndibe's.Another of
the notable events is the emergence of Africanfuturism, a genre pioneered by
Nigerian American writer Nnedi Okorafor. This has led to the introduction
of speculative fiction to the Nigerian literary space, with writers such as Suyi Davies
Okungbowa, Mazi Nwonwu, Oghenechovwe Donald Ekpeki, Chinelo Onwualu, Tade
Thompson, A. Igoni Barrett, Dandy Jackson Chukwudi taking on the new genre. Mazi
Nwonwu, writing for Strange Horizons, described the new set of stories as being
part of a "tradition of spinning tales." In Comics, third generation comics
exist: Comic Republic Global Network, a Lagos-based publisher, is prominent in
creating Africanfuturist superheroes like Guardian Prime. Laguardia, a comic book
by Nnedi Okorafor, is also associated with Africanfuturism. Exploring the third generation
writers, the leitmotifs or reoccurring theme of their works include the following:

Identity and Belonging

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's novel "Half of a Yellow Sun" masterfully explores the theme of identity and
belonging in the context of the Biafran war. Through the narratives of Biafran war survivors, Adichie
sheds light on the complexities of identity formation, particularly in the context of cultural heritage and
globalization. For example, the character of Olanna embodies the struggles of identity and belonging as
she navigates her Igbo heritage and her relationship with her husband.

Similarly, Chris Abani's novel "Graceland" explores the theme of identity and belonging through the eyes
of a young boy growing up in post-colonial Nigeria. The protagonist, Elvis, struggles to reconcile his
traditional Igbo culture with the influence of Western culture. This struggle highlights the complexities
of identity formation in contemporary Nigeria.

Social Justice and Human Rights

Sefi Atta's works, such as "Everything Good Will Come", shed light on the struggles of women and
marginalized communities in Nigeria. Atta's writing highlights the importance of social justice and
human rights, particularly in the context of women's empowerment and economic independence. For
example, the character of Sheri faces numerous challenges as a woman living in a patriarchal society,
highlighting the need for social change.

Helon Habila's "Waiting for an Angel" critiques the socio-political landscape of Nigeria, highlighting
issues of corruption and oppression. The novel's protagonist, Lomba, is a journalist who exposes the
truth about government corruption, highlighting the importance of a free press in promoting social
justice.

Globalization and Cultural Exchange

Third-generation Nigerian writers often explore the impact of globalization on Nigerian culture and
identity. The influx of Western cultural values and practices has led to a complex blending of traditional
and modern identities. Writers like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Chris Abani examine the tensions
between cultural heritage and globalization, highlighting the challenges of navigating multiple cultural
identities.

For example, Adichie's novel "Americanah" explores the experiences of a young Nigerian woman,
Ifemelu, as she navigates her identity in the United States. The novel highlights the complexities of
cultural identity, race, and belonging in a globalized world.

Similarly, Chris Abani's novel "Graceland" explores the tensions between traditional Igbo culture and
Western influences in post-colonial Nigeria. The protagonist, Elvis, struggles to reconcile his traditional
heritage with the influence of Western culture, highlighting the challenges of identity formation in a
globalized world.

Gender and Sexuality

Third-generation Nigerian writers also explore themes of gender and sexuality, highlighting the
experiences of women and marginalized communities in Nigerian society. Writers like Sefi Atta and
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie examine the challenges faced by women in patriarchal societies, including
issues of women's empowerment, economic independence, and sexual freedom.

For example, Atta's novel "Everything Good Will Come" explores the struggles of women in Nigeria,
highlighting the challenges of women's empowerment and economic independence. The protagonist,
Sheri, faces numerous challenges as a woman living in a patriarchal society, highlighting the need for
social change.
Adichie's short story collection "The Thing Around Your Neck" also explores themes of gender and
sexuality, highlighting the experiences of women and marginalized communities in Nigerian society.

Literary Devices
Third-generation Nigerian writers also experiment with innovative narrative techniques and language
use. Adichie's use of multiple narrative voices in "Half of a Yellow Sun" creates a rich and nuanced
portrayal of the Biafran war. For example, the character of Ugwu's narrative voice provides a unique
perspective on the war, highlighting the experiences of a young boy caught in the midst of conflict.

Abani's blending of pidgin English with standard English in "Graceland" adds to the novel's authenticity
and cultural depth. The use of pidgin English creates a sense of realism and highlights the complexities
of language use in Nigeria.

Comparative Analysis
A comparative analysis of male and female writers reveals interesting differences and similarities. While
both male and female writers explore themes of identity and social justice, female writers tend to focus
more on issues of women's empowerment and marginalization. For example, Atta's "Everything Good
Will Come" focuses on the struggles of women in Nigeria, while Habila's "Waiting for an Angel" explores
the broader socio-political landscape.

However, both male and female writers share a common concern for the future of Nigeria and the well-
being of its people. Adichie's "Half of a Yellow Sun" and Abani's "Graceland" both highlight the
importance of preserving cultural heritage and promoting social justice.

Theoretical Frameworks
The works of third-generation Nigerian writers can be analyzed through various theoretical frameworks,
including postcolonial theory and feminist theory. Postcolonial theory provides a useful lens for
understanding the complexities of identity formation and cultural heritage in the context of colonialism
and globalization. For example, Adichie's "Half of a Yellow Sun" can be analyzed through the lens of
postcolonial theory, highlighting the impact of colonialism on Nigerian identity.

Feminist theory highlights the importance of women's empowerment and the struggles of women in
patriarchal societies. Atta's "Everything Good Will Come" can be analyzed through the lens of feminist
theory, highlighting the need for social change and women's empowerment.
The Impact of the Third Generation of Nigerian Writers on Nigerian
Literature
The Third Generation of Nigerian Writers has significantly impacted Nigerian literature, introducing new
writing styles, exploring fresh themes, and expanding the publishing landscape.

Shifting Themes and Sensibilities

The Third Generation of Nigerian Writers has shifted the themes and sensibilities of Nigerian literature.
Writers like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Chris Abani explore post-independence concerns, delving
into themes of identity, racism, and class in their works. Adichie's novel "Americanah" is a prime
example, as it explores the experiences of a young Nigerian woman navigating her identity in the United
States. Additionally, these writers challenge traditional patriarchal norms and stereotypes, with
Adichie's "Dear Ijeawele, or a Feminist Manifesto in Fifteen Suggestions" being a powerful example of
feminist writing.

Innovative Narrative Techniques

The Third Generation of Nigerian Writers is characterized by innovative narrative techniques. Writers
like Helon Habila and Akwaeke Emezi employ experimental approaches and diverse voices in their
works. Habila's novel "Waiting for an Angel" showcases a unique narrative style, while Emezi's
"Freshwater" blends elements of memoir, fiction, and poetry to explore themes of identity and
belonging.

Expanding the Publishing Landscape

The Third Generation of Nigerian Writers has expanded the publishing landscape in Nigeria. The
emergence of new publishing houses like Cassava Republic Press and Parrésia Publishers has supported
the growth of these writers and their works. Many of these writers have also gained international
recognition, bringing attention to the vibrancy of Nigerian literature. Adichie, Abani, and Sefi Atta are
just a few examples of writers who have achieved international acclaim.

Deepening the Writer-Society Relationship

The Third Generation of Nigerian Writers has deepened the relationship between writers and society.
These writers continue to engage ideologically with their societies, reflecting a dynamic spirit and
resilience in the face of societal challenges. Their works often shed light on societal constructs and grim
incidents, contributing to increased social awareness. For instance, Atta's novel "Everything Good Will
Come" explores the struggles of women in Nigeria, highlighting the need for social change.
Reflecting the Postcolonial Condition

The Third Generation of Nigerian Writers reflects the complexities of the postcolonial condition. Writers
like Emezi and NoViolet Bulawayo refuse to provide tidy endings or constructed coherence in their
narratives, highlighting the ongoing need for negotiation and interrogation. Works like Adichie's "Half of
a Yellow Sun" reflect the search for a coherent meaning of nation and the complexities of affiliation and
belonging in post-colonial Nigeria.

Deficiencies of Third Generation Nigerian Writers

The third generation of Nigerian writers has been instrumental in shaping the country's literary
landscape. However, their works have also been subject to various criticisms and deficiencies. This part
will explore some of the key deficiencies of third generation Nigerian writers, with examples from
notable authors.

Overemphasis on Western Influence

One of the primary criticisms of third generation Nigerian writers is their overemphasis on Western
influence. Many of these writers have been accused of prioritizing Western literary styles and themes
over traditional Nigerian cultural identity. For instance, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's novel
"Americanah" has been praised for its exploration of themes such as identity, racism, and belonging.
However, some critics argue that the novel's focus on the protagonist's experiences in the United States
detracts from the Nigerian context.

Limited Representation

Another deficiency of third generation Nigerian writers is their limited representation of diverse
experiences and perspectives. While writers like Adichie and Chris Abani have gained international
recognition, their works may not adequately represent the experiences of Nigerians from different
regions or socioeconomic backgrounds. For example, Abani's novel "Graceland" explores themes of
identity and class in post-colonial Nigeria, but its focus on the experiences of a young Igbo boy from a
middle-class background may not be representative of the experiences of Nigerians from other regions
or socioeconomic backgrounds.

Dependence on New Media Technology

The third generation of Nigerian writers has also been criticized for their dependence on new media
technology. While new media has provided opportunities for these writers to showcase their work, it
also raises concerns about the quality and depth of their writing. Some critics argue that the emphasis
on popularity and online presence may lead to a lack of literary merit and depth in their works.
Criticisms from Nigerian Literary Critics

Finally, the third generation of Nigerian writers has faced criticisms from notable Nigerian literary critics.
Critics like Sinatu Ojikutu, Charles Nnolim, and Niyi Osundare have expressed concerns about the
direction and quality of third-generation Nigerian writing. These criticisms highlight the need for third
generation Nigerian writers to engage more critically with the complexities of Nigerian society and
culture.

While the third generation of Nigerian writers has made significant contributions to the country's
literary landscape, their works are not without deficiencies. The overemphasis on Western influence,
limited representation, dependence on new media technology, and criticisms from Nigerian literary
critics are all areas that these writers need to address in order to produce more nuanced and
representative works.

Conclusion

In conclusion, third-generation Nigerian writers have enriched the literary landscape with their
exploration of identity, social justice, and innovative narrative techniques. Their works provide valuable
insights into the complexities of contemporary Nigerian society, solidifying Nigeria's position as a major
contributor to world literature.
References

Adichie, C. N. (2006). Half of a Yellow Sun. Anchor Books.

Abani, C. (2004). Graceland. Grove Press.

Atta, S. (2005). Everything Good Will Come. Interlink Books.

Habila, H. (2002). Waiting for an Angel. W.W. Norton & Company.

Adichie, C. N. (2013). Americanah. Alfred A. Knopf.

Articles and Online Resources

Ojikutu, S. (Various articles and critiques on third-generation Nigerian writers).

Nnolim, C. (Various articles and critiques on Nigerian literature).

Osundare, N. (Various articles and critiques on Nigerian literature).

Academic Journals

Journal of African Literature and Culture

Research in African Literatures

The Journal of Commonwealth Literature

Websites

African Literature Association

Nigerian Literature Online

Litencyc - Literary Encyclopedia