The Guardian of the Word by Camara Laye is a remarkable blend of anthropology and storytelling, exploring the oral traditions of West Africa. In this compelling work, Laye recounts his time spent in the Guinean village of Fadama in 1963, where he recorded the stories of Babu Condé, a revered griot (traditional storyteller). Through the griot’s voice, readers are transported to a world of myth and legend, beginning with the daring quest of brothers Moké Mussa and Moké Dantuman to confront the powerful Buffalo of Dô. The narrative then expands, chronicling the rise and fall of the medieval Mali Empire, interweaving historical and legendary figures into a rich tapestry of African heritage.
Laye’s work serves both as a preservation of cultural memory and a reflection on the importance of oral storytelling in maintaining identity. His profound respect for the griots’ role in safeguarding African history is evident, as he emphasises the value of these narratives in resisting the erasure of indigenous culture. Through The Guardian of the Word, Laye aspires to inspire a cultural awakening and a reconnection with Africa’s past, challenging the dominance of Western perspectives.
