River in the Belly

The River in the Belly is a lyrical meditation on the Congo River that explores identity, chaos, and wonder, as well as race and the detritus of colonialism. It is a work that can speak to the hopes and tragedies of post-independence Democratic Republic of the Congo, as well as the generative yet embattled subject position of the African diasporic writer in Europe longing for home.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 152 pages
Publication date: 16 September 2021
Publisher: Deep Vellum Publishing

The River in the Belly: A Lyric Meditation on the Congo River

Fiston Mwanza Mujila, a Congolese author, has crafted a captivating and thought-provoking work titled "The River in the Belly." This lyrical meditation delves into the multifaceted identity, chaos, and wonder of the Democratic Republic of Congo, as well as the intricate intersections of race and the remnants of colonialism. Through his innovative use of the "solitude" poetic form, Mujila offers a fresh perspective on the Congo River, celebrating its immense beauty, caressing its complexities, and chastising its historical challenges.

Mujila draws inspiration from a diverse range of sources, including Soviet history, Congolese popular music, international jazz, and the experiences of life in European exile. His writing seamlessly weaves together these diverse threads, creating a rich tapestry that resonates with the extraordinary hopes and tragedies of post-independence Democratic Republic of the Congo. At the same time, it explores the complex and often embattled subject position of African diasporic writers in Europe, longing for their homes and grappling with the complexities of cultural identity.

For fans of Fiston Mwanza Mujila's earlier work, "Tram 83," "The River in the Belly" will not disappoint. The same incandescent, improvisatory verbal energy that captivated readers in his English-language debut is present in this collection. Mujila's poetic language is vivid, evocative, and brimming with energy, as he skillfully weaves together vivid imagery, historical references, and personal reflections to create a deeply immersive reading experience.

"The River in the Belly" is a testament to Fiston Mwanza Mujila's talent as a writer and his commitment to exploring the complexities of African history and culture. It is a must-read for anyone interested in African literature, history, and the ongoing struggles of the African diaspora. Through his lyrical meditation on the Congo River, Mujila offers a fresh perspective on the region's past, present, and future, challenging readers to think critically and engage with the world around them.

Weight: 234g
Dimension: 154 x 320 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781646050673