Unmasking the myth of development in Imbolo Mbue's How Beautiful We Were: A postcolonial ecocritical analysis

Abstract

This study delves into Imbolo Mbue's literary masterpiece, How Beautiful We Were, to unravel the intricate themes of environmental exploitation, power dynamics, state vampirism, and the clash between nativist values and developmentalist pursuits. The purpose of this research was to analyze how the myth of development influences the interactions between different stakeholders and impacts the environment in the post-colonial context as reflected in this novel. The objectives of the study were to examine the perspectives of natives and developmentalists on land, explore power dynamics in the narrative, assess the effects of state vampirism on the ecosystem, and under-stand how the myth of development shapes environmental degradation. The method-ology employed was a qualitative approach grounded in postcolonial ecocritical the-ory, utilizing close reading and thematic analysis to unravel the complexities of the text. Drawing on theoretical analysis, the study uncovered the exploitative practices of multinational corporations and governments, emphasizing the urgent need for sus-tainable practices and social justice. The findings revealed the destructive impact of unchecked industrial development on local communities and ecosystems, highlight-ing the complex relationship between development, environmental sustainability, and social inequality. The implications of this research underscore the importance of reevaluating development paradigms to prioritize environmental protection and community well-being in the postcolonial world. This study serves as a clarion call for equitable and sustainable development practices that honor the interconnected-ness of humanity and the environment, paving the way for a more just and harmoni-ous future.