Uwem Akpan
Biography
Uwem Akpan is a Nigerian Catholic priest and author, born in 1971 in Ikot Akpan Eda, Akwa Ibom State. He pursued his education in philosophy and theology at Creighton University and the Catholic University of Eastern Africa, before being ordained a Jesuit priest in 1993. Akpan later earned an MFA in creative writing from the University of Michigan. His acclaimed debut collection of short stories, "Say You're One of Them," published in 2008, became an Oprah's Book Club selection and brought him international recognition. His work often delves into the lives of children grappling with profound challenges such as conflict, poverty, and political instability across Africa. Akpan's storytelling is lauded for its powerful empathy and insightful portrayal of complex human experiences. He currently teaches at the University of Florida.
Selected Thoughts
«Children of violence, they are. Born to it, raised in it. It is what they know. It is what they will teach their children.»
«There is no greater evil than to be made to feel like you don't belong in the world.»
«Hope is a fragile thing, easy to lose, hard to find, but essential for survival.»
Writing Style
Akpan's writing style is characterized by its stark, unsparing realism and deep empathy. He employs vivid, often unsettling prose to depict harsh realities, frequently through the perspective of child narrators. His language is direct, yet rich with sensory details and emotional depth, creating powerful and immersive narratives. He masterfully uses irony, symbolism, and a distinctive narrative voice to explore complex societal issues and the resilience of the human spirit amidst adversity.