Breaking the Silence: Anthology of Liberian Poetry

Breaking the Silence is the first comprehensive collection of literature from Liberia since before the nation's independence, featuring work from the 1800s to the present. It explores the identity of Liberia's founding settlers as African free slaves and the devastation of a long, bloody civil war.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 302 pages
Publication date: 03 April 2023
Publisher: University of Nebraska Press

Breaking the Silence is a remarkable compilation of literature from Liberia, spanning from the pre-independence era to the present. Compiled by Patricia Jabbeh Wesley, this collection showcases the works of poets and emerging young writers who explore contemporary literary traditions, blending African and African diaspora poetry that transcends geographical boundaries. Within this collection, the founding settlers of Liberia grapple with their identity as African free slaves in their homeland, a place from which their ancestors were forcibly taken. At the same time, writers from the early twentieth and twenty-first centuries navigate a landscape that is paradoxical, marked by conflict and self-contradiction.

The contributors to this volume celebrate the beauty of Liberia while simultaneously mourning the devastating impact of a protracted and bloody civil war. Their words evoke a sense of resilience and hope, as they navigate the complexities of a nation rebuilding itself after years of strife. Through their literary contributions, these artists offer a profound reflection on the human experience, exploring themes of identity, heritage, and the search for peace in a world that continues to be shaped by historical legacies.

Breaking the Silence stands as a testament to the power of literature to transcend boundaries and connect people across time and space. It is a valuable addition to the African literary landscape, providing a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Liberia's cultural heritage and the ongoing struggles of its people. This collection invites readers to engage with the complexities of Liberia's history and to celebrate the resilience and creativity of its contemporary writers.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781496233066