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Afrofuturism

A dynamic literary genre that fuses science fiction, history and fantasy to reimagine African and Afro-diasporic experiences.

What is Afrofuturism?

Afrofuturism is a cultural, philosophical and artistic aesthetic that combines elements of science fiction, technology, futurism and Afro-diasporic culture. It uses speculation and fiction to redefine and explore the historical and future narratives of Africans and the African diaspora. Afrofuturism seeks to revisit history, critique the present, and imagine alternative futures where African people are at the center of technological and social narratives.

Main themes of Afrofuturism

Re-imagining of history

Afrofuturism revisits and recontextualizes African and diasporic history, often by integrating speculative and futuristic elements. It seeks to fill gaps left by traditional historical narratives and offer alternative interpretations.

 

Technology and Futurism

Technology and scientific advances play a central role in Afrofuturism. The stories often explore how technologies can be used to liberate African and Afro-diasporic communities and build equitable futures.

 

Resistance and Resilience

The themes of resistance against oppression and resilience in the face of adversity are recurring in Afrofuturism. The characters and stories highlight the ability of African people to overcome challenges and thrive.

 

Spirituality and Mythology

Afrofuturism often incorporates elements of African spirituality, mythology and cosmology, creating narratives rich in symbolism and deep cultural meanings.​

Cultural influence and impact

 

Afrofuturism has a significant impact on contemporary culture, influencing not only literature, but also music, cinema, visual arts and fashion. Artists like Janelle Monáe and cinematic works like “Black Panther” have helped popularize Afrofuturism and highlight its powerful messages of resistance, resilience and reinvention.​

As Africa is a continent of many cultures, rather than a single country, there is a wide diversity of myths from different nations. So to speak of "African mythology" is a simplification that avoids mentioning each distinct tradition.

Iconic works of Afrofuturism

Who Fears death?

by Nnedi Okorafor

This novel combines elements of science fiction and fantasy to tell the story of Onyesonwu, a young woman with mysterious powers who fights against an apocalyptic prophecy in a post-apocalyptic Africa.

 

The Deep

by Rivers Solomon

Inspired by the eponymous song by the rap group Clipping, this novel explores the story of the descendants of pregnant African women thrown overboard from slave ships. These descendants live underwater and are faced with crucial choices about their identity and their history.

 

Binti

by Nnedi Okorafor

This trilogy follows Binti, a young Himba woman who leaves Earth to attend an intergalactic university. His adventures explore themes of culture, identity and reconciliation.​

 

Cover of the novel ​Binti by Nnedi.jpg
Cover of the novel The Deep  by Rivers Solomon
Cover of the novel who fears death by Nnedi Okorafor.jpg
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