Language debate in the development of African written literature

Abstract

This study seeks to examine the debate on the language used in the development of African written literature. Such a need has resulted in the emergence of two different schools of thought, i.e., ‘Relativists’ and ‘Universalists’. The study further presents an assessment on the historical review of the debate, examines the two different forms of ideological orientations and the basis of their arguments towards the development of African written literature. However, the researcher’s standpoint is also explored in order to critique the nature of the arguments that are raised in support of these ideological orientations. The study also concludes that the type and the source of language to be used to discuss Africa’s lone experience is not an important agenda that should be considered at all in African written literature. Rather, enough attention must be given to the presentation of the Africa’s rich values, traditions, philosophy and colonial experience; and this will go a long way to help Africa regain its ever-soiling stuck image in the outside world.