Acclained writer, Chimamanda Ngozi-Adichie, has linked the source of her inspirations to the ancestors.
She also identified the spirit as an inspiring force.
This may remind followers of Nigerian literature of the declaration by the Nobel laureate that Ogun the god of iron is his major source of inspiration.
Chimamanda stated her position in an interview with the CNN, in which she reflected on the writers’ block she battled for years before releasing her latest novel, Dream Count
“There are stories that are — so I call it the ancestors and the spirits speaking to me. So they’re really speaking to me now. And I’m very happy to be running around and singing and dancing for this novel, Dream Count, because it means a lot to me”, she said.
She admitted that while she tried to mask her unhappiness and fill the creative void with speaking engagements, she often returned feeling miserable.
She noted that she found comfort in reading books and poetry, which eventually helped her reconnect with language and her craft.
“I did a number of things. I tried to distract myself. I said yes to many more things than I ordinarily would because I just thought the writing is not happening. Okay, why don’t I just go and give the speech? And part of it was also, maybe if I go, then I’ll get inspired… but then I wouldn’t. Then I’d come back and be miserable.
“But I also think I did things like read the books I love. I read a lot more poetry in that period because I think poetry really helps with language. But also in the end, it’s just about waiting and hoping. You’re not in control of this thing”, she said.
The writer said she views creativity as a spiritual experience, stating that stories come from ancestors and spirits speaking to her.
She expressed gratitude after overcoming her struggles and finishing her novel, “Dream Count,” which has found success with readers.
“I’m grateful that I finally finished it. I’m grateful that it’s out. I’m grateful that it’s found its readers. I’m grateful that, in some ways, really, honestly, it’s kind of everything I hoped it would be.”
