Futuristic Themes and Science Fiction in Modern African Literature

A common thread that runs in the work of the current generation of African science fiction and fantasy writers is the need to utilize “specificity” in their plot and setting. This chapter discusses the existence of “Africanfuturism” in modern African fiction, based on examples from specific novels and stories by African writers that are arguably examples of science fiction or fantasy, to argue that “Africanfuturism” does exist and is identifiable in works of fiction by first-generation African fiction writers and the succeeding generations that follow their trail. The Concubine possesses every charm one might find in a narrative that could easily pass as science fiction and fantasy fiction projecting the features of African futurism. Africanfuturism in fiction is real and exists in the novels written by renowned African fiction writers as well as those written by current authors specializing in the science fiction genre.