African Myths Of Origin

Africa! Folklore of the great continent

By Maura Brickell

AFRICA IS A COUNTRY of rich diversity and can be bewildering at the best of times. The thought of tackling a collection of African myths was somewhat daunting. However, the editor Stephen Belcher has obviously taken great care in translating the stories for the world stage.

From the moment I turned the first page I was led through a continent riddled with mystery and intrigue. Each tribe and kingdom has its own version of events, from waiting for a baby to excrete a valued bead to the creation of the world.

Although the format of the text is driven towards more academic reading, it is a pleasure to read at leisure. The clear narrative allows for complete immersion in the ancient African civilisation. At times the bizarre contents of the myths can be a little confusing, especially as most of them are so brief, there is little time to fully grasp the action. What with Bokele being born from an egg and Yendembe changing his name to Lonkundo just for giggles, it takes some concentration.

The collection of short stories and myths has been translated with skill and sensitivity. Upon finishing it would be almost impossible not to feel a little closer to the great continent of Africa.