Congolese novel published after 50 years
Jean Malonga's 'Cœur d'Aryenne', written in 1953, is now available from Présence Africaine.
Jean Malonga's first novel from Brazzaville, 'Cœur d'Aryenne', has been published by Présence Africaine more than 50 years after it was written.
The novel, set in Mossaka in the Republic of Congo, tells the story of a young Congolese boy named Mambeke who saves the daughter of white colonists from drowning. The story explores themes of colonialism and racial ideology, drawing parallels to historical debates about the humanity of indigenous peoples.
The book was previously only accessible in specialized libraries. The narrative begins with Mambeke rescuing Solange, the daughter of colonist Roch Morax, from a caiman in the river.
Why it mattersThe publication of 'Cœur d'Aryenne' makes a significant work of Congolese literature accessible to a wider audience.