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
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.
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.
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.