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The LRB Podcast
On Binyavanga Wainaina
Oct 23, 2024
In this engaging discussion, Jeremy Harding, a contributing editor at the LRB and author of compelling works on migration and memoir, delves into the life and legacy of Binyavanga Wainaina. They explore Wainaina's iconic essay ‘How to Write About Africa,’ critiquing stereotypes in Western media. The conversation touches on humor in hardship, his poignant experiences reporting from South Sudan, and reflections on coming out to his parents. Harding also highlights a memorable interview with Senegalese musician Youssou N'Dour, blending wit and insight into African narratives.
44:09
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Quick takeaways
- Binyavanga Wainaina's critique of Western journalism highlights the harmful tropes that perpetuate misrepresentation of Africa and its people.
- His personal narrative of coming out illustrates the complex interplay of identity and the struggle against external labeling in African contexts.
Deep dives
The Birth of How to Write About Africa
Binyavanga Wainana's famous piece, 'How to Write About Africa,' originated from his outrage over the misrepresentation of the continent in journalism, particularly following his reading of a Granta issue. His criticism targeted the tropes and stereotypes perpetuated by Western journalists, especially focusing on Richard Kapuscinski's work, which he perceived as fabricated and condescending. Wainana's frustration turned into a call to action, leading him to pen an aggressive email that eventually prompted an invitation to contribute to a new Africa issue of Granta. This remarkable transformation from a heated response to a celebrated essay reflects Wainana's incisive critique of the Western narrative surrounding Africa.
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Discover
highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode