The Shadow of Bealu Girma: The Unanswered Call for Ethiopian Writers in the Face of Crisis

(Essayias Lesanu)

Amidst a time of unprecedented crisis and monumental transition, Ethiopian writers bear a responsibility that stretches far beyond their traditional literary roles. Their duty is not just to document events or weave tales, but to serve as guardians of cultural integrity, truth proponents, and collective voice interpreters.

History is replete with instances where writers, often armed with nothing but their pen and an unflinching commitment to truth, stood against the tide of oppression and falsification. Such instances are not just inspirational tales but serve as sobering reminders of the potential and role of writers in society.

The revered Ethiopian author Bealu Girma is a prime example. Known for his indomitable spirit and unwavering conviction, Bealu used his work to spotlight the harshest realities of his time. Even amidst political turbulence, his writings unflinchingly mirrored the struggles of the everyday Ethiopian. For his audacious pursuit of truth, Bealu paid the ultimate price; his life was claimed by the very forces he challenged through his work. This is a testimony of a writer choosing the path of truth over the allure of power, serving as a beacon of integrity for his contemporaries and successors alike.

It is disheartening to see that some of today’s writers, rather than following in these noble footsteps, seem to be seduced by the gleam of wealth and the trappings of power. The commodification of the written word, the sacrifice of integrity on the altar of profit, and the abandonment of truth in favor of palatable narratives are all symptoms of literary culture in crisis.

But this crisis also offers an opportunity. Ethiopian authors today are tasked with the significant responsibility of redirecting this drift. They need to re embrace the intrinsic value of their craft, not merely as a conduit of entertainment or personal enrichment, but as a tool for social transformation, fostering dialogue, and advocating change. They must reaffirm the power of storytelling to tell the people’s stories, reflecting the reality of their nation without distortion.

In these critical times, Ethiopian writers must embody the spirit of their brave predecessors like Bealu Girma. They must be willing to sacrifice their comfort and risk their privilege to narrate the truth. Their words should amplify those unheard voices and shine a light on unseen injustices. Their narratives should interrogate power, challenge complacency, and inspire change.

Ethiopian writers must become the voice of their people, their culture, and their truth. The pen, after all, holds the power to sway minds, inspire hearts, and, ultimately, shape a nation’s destiny. It is time for Ethiopian writers to reclaim this power, rise above the lure of immediate gratification, and contribute meaningfully to the narrative of their nation. The price of inaction is far too great, and the potential rewards of truth and integrity are far too valuable.

Indeed, the creative potential of Ethiopian writers is vast and multifaceted, with the power to spark progressive dialogues and serve as catalysts for societal evolution. At this pivotal moment in history, they must remind themselves and their readers of this potent capacity. They are not just authors in the traditional sense, but historians, philosophers, social critics, and voices of the collective consciousness.

Their task does not stop at merely illuminating societal issues but extends to offering insights, reflections, and potential solutions. Their narratives should not just record the struggles of their country but also highlight the resilience, hope, and vibrant cultural diversity that shape the Ethiopian identity.

Moreover, they should endeavor to represent the overlooked and marginalized communities whose voices are seldom heard. It’s a daunting task, yet it’s essential for creating a more inclusive and balanced narrative. 

For instance, writers could learn from Maaza Mengiste, an Ethiopian author known for her vivid portrayals of women’s experiences during times of conflict. Through her novel “The Shadow King”, she has successfully amplified the voices of the women soldiers who were erased from the historical narrative of the Italo-Ethiopian war. These are the stories that need telling; these are the voices that need amplifying.

A noteworthy point is that Ethiopian authors must remain independent from political manipulation. They should not become mouthpieces of any particular ideology but strive to maintain impartiality. Their loyalty must remain to the truth and to their readers. As gatekeepers of societal consciousness, they should strive to discern and maintain an equilibrium between truth-telling and sensitivity toward their readers’ diverse perspectives.

Therefore, to reiterate, the responsibility of Ethiopian writers in this critical era is immense. They are called upon to reclaim their role as champions of truth, advocates for social justice, and guardians of cultural heritage. They should take up their pens, not for the seduction of wealth or power, but for the noble cause of speaking truth to power, of representing the underrepresented, and of shaping a better, more inclusive narrative for their beloved nation.

As we traverse this critical narrative, a compelling question arises: Where are the Ethiopian writers of today? As the nation grapples with unprecedented challenges and societal shifts, the voices of truth, the narrators of the unvarnished stories, seem to be fading in the cacophony of chaos.

Is it that they have become ensnared in the gilded cage of monetary gains, trading their pens for the ephemeral comforts of wealth? Or have they succumbed to the pressures of political censorship, veiling the truth under layers of fear and repression? These questions are not intended to indict but to implore introspection and invoke a return to the noble path of literary responsibility.

The voices of the people, their trials, their triumphs, their fears, and their hopes need to be heard, now more than ever. Their stories deserve to be told with sincerity, courage, and uncompromising fidelity to the truth. These stories await those willing to forgo personal gain, confront power, and elevate the narratives of the marginalized.

The nation yearns for the return of its literary guardians, those unafraid to ‘say it as they see it.’ Ethiopian writers, it’s time to rise from the shadows, reclaim your pens, and reignite the power of your words. Remember Bealu Girma and his noble sacrifice, remember your purpose, and let your words once again become the voice of Ethiopia. Your nation awaits.

(The author of this article can be contacted via email at Essulesanu@gmail.com)

Editor’s note : Views in the article do not necessarily reflect the views of borkena.com  

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