God's Bits of Wood

Based on his own experiences, Sembène Ousmane's novel God's Bits of Wood is a vivid and moving portrayal of the 1947 Dakar-Niger Railway strike, evoking the color, passion, and tragedy of those years. The women had not stopped singing since leaving Thiès, with new verses born at the hazard of chance or inspiration.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 01 February 2024
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

In 1947, a significant labor strike occurred on the Dakar-Niger Railway, impacting the lives of the workers involved. In this captivating novel by Sembène Ousmane, the author vividly portrays the rich tapestry of emotions, passions, and tragedies that unfolded during those pivotal years in history.

From the moment the women embarked on their journey from Thiès, their voices resonated with unwavering melodies. The refrain would waft through the air, carried by different groups, each adding their unique verses and lyrics. The song seemed to evolve organically, with each word leading to the next, finding its rhythm and place in the ever-changing tapestry. It was uncertain whether the song had a beginning or an end, as it seemed to transcend time and space.

The women's singing became a powerful symbol of unity and resilience during the strike. It was a way for them to express their frustrations, hopes, and dreams, and to connect with each other in a time of great adversity. The song became a testament to the human spirit's ability to endure and thrive, even in the face of hardship.

Sembène Ousmane's novel, God's Bits of Wood, is widely celebrated as a masterpiece and a seminal work in African literature. Based on his own experiences during the railroad strike, the book offers a profound insight into the social, political, and cultural dynamics of French West Africa during that period. Ousmane's writing is characterized by his powerful storytelling and his ability to evoke the emotions of his characters with finesse.

The novel's title, God's Bits of Wood, is a metaphor that reflects the fragmented nature of the African continent and the struggles of its people. The railroad strike, which brought together workers from different backgrounds and cultures, symbolizes the unity and collective strength that can be achieved when people come together to fight for their rights.

Through the characters of the women, Sembène Ousmane explores the complex dynamics of gender, class, and race in postcolonial Africa. The women's singing, which is often seen as a form of resistance and empowerment, reflects the struggles of women who were marginalized and oppressed by the colonial system. The novel also sheds light on the complex relationship between the French colonial authorities and the African workers, highlighting the power dynamics and the struggles for independence that were prevalent at the time.

God's Bits of Wood has had a profound impact on African literature and culture. It has been translated into numerous languages and has been widely read and studied worldwide. The novel has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Nobel Prize in Literature, which Ousmane received in 1960.

In conclusion, Sembène Ousmane's novel, God's Bits of Wood, is a powerful and evocative work that captures the essence of the 1947 railroad strike and the broader social, political, and cultural context of French West Africa during that period. Through the women's singing and the characters of the novel, Ousmane offers a profound exploration of the human spirit, resilience, and the struggle for freedom. The novel's legacy continues to inspire and resonate with readers around the world, reminding us of the importance of solidarity, resistance, and the pursuit of a better future.

Weight: 366g
Dimension: 127 x 198 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781035900848