How is ‘The Palm-Wine Drinkard’ Compared with Ben Okri’s ‘The Famished Road’?
‘The Palm-Wine Drinkard’ by Amos Tutuola and ‘The Famished Road’ by Ben Okri are two landmark novels in African literature that explore similar themes through different styles. Both novels delve into African mythology, the spiritual world, and the blending of reality and the supernatural. However, they differ in their narrative techniques, philosophical outlook, and literary structure.
1. Similar Themes
Both novels revolve around journeys—spiritual, physical, and metaphorical. The protagonist in ‘The Palm-Wine Drinkard’ embarks on a quest to bring back his dead palm-wine tapster, leading him into magical and strange lands. Similarly, Azaro in ‘The Famished Road’ is a spirit child (abiku) who moves between the human and spirit worlds. These journeys symbolize the African experience of life, struggle, survival, and identity.
2. Use of Magical Realism and Folklore
Both novels use magical realism and traditional African folklore. Tutuola’s narrative is heavily based on Yoruba myths and oral storytelling. His language is simple, direct, and often non-standard, reflecting oral tradition. Okri, on the other hand, uses poetic and philosophical language to depict magical events. While Tutuola’s magic is literal and wild, Okri’s is symbolic and dreamlike.
3. Language and Style
- Tutuola’s Style: Very straightforward, raw, and rooted in folk tales. His use of broken English is deliberate and gives the narrative authenticity.
- Okri’s Style: More polished, abstract, and symbolic. His language is rich and dense, appealing to philosophical and literary audiences.
4. Representation of the Spirit World
In both novels, the spirit world is not separate from reality. In ‘The Palm-Wine Drinkard,’ spirits and humans interact freely. The hero meets all kinds of strange creatures and deities. In ‘The Famished Road,’ the spirit world is woven into everyday life. Azaro’s visions and the spirits he sees reflect real-world problems like poverty, corruption, and political unrest. This blending of worlds is central to both books but handled differently in tone and intent.
5. Philosophical vs. Fantastical
Okri’s novel is more philosophical. He reflects on the nature of existence, suffering, and hope. His narrative is slower, filled with meaning and metaphors. Tutuola’s story is more action-driven and focused on adventure and survival in bizarre circumstances. ‘The Palm-Wine Drinkard’ is more of a folk epic, while ‘The Famished Road’ leans toward a modern literary novel with deep philosophical undercurrents.
6. Cultural and Political Commentary
Both authors address the state of African society, though in different ways. Tutuola uses myth and fantasy to preserve cultural heritage and moral values. Okri uses magic to reflect on Nigeria’s social and political problems. His use of the abiku tradition helps explain why cycles of hardship continue in post-colonial Africa.
7. Influence and Legacy
Tutuola was one of the first African writers to gain international attention. His work paved the way for magical realism in African literature. Okri, a Booker Prize winner, brought more global recognition to African narratives through a more refined literary approach. Both books are key texts in African literary studies and are often studied together to understand the evolution of African storytelling.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while ‘The Palm-Wine Drinkard’ and ‘The Famished Road’ share a foundation in African oral tradition and magical realism, they differ in style, purpose, and narrative depth. Tutuola offers a folk tale filled with energy and raw imagination, while Okri presents a lyrical, reflective journey through the African condition. Together, they showcase the richness and variety of African literature, each contributing uniquely to its global appreciation.