Sozaboy

Sozaboy is a novella written by Ken Saro-Wiwa, a Nigerian writer, television producer, and environmental activist. Published in 1985, Sozaboy: A Novel in Rotten English is notable for its unique linguistic style. The story is set during the Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970) and follows the experiences of a naive and impressionable young man, Sozaboy (meaning "soldier boy"), who eagerly enlists in the army.

The novella is written in "Rotten English," a style that blends Pidgin English, broken English, and standard English, reflecting the linguistic reality of many Nigerians and highlighting the social and cultural complexities of the time. This distinctive language allows Saro-Wiwa to portray the protagonist's limited education and understanding of the world, while also conveying the humor, irony, and tragic absurdity of war.

Sozaboy explores themes of disillusionment, the brutal realities of war, the loss of innocence, and the manipulation of individuals by powerful forces. As Sozaboy encounters the violence and corruption of the war, his initial enthusiasm gradually transforms into despair and a profound sense of loss. The novella provides a critical perspective on the Nigerian Civil War and its impact on ordinary people. Sozaboy is considered a significant work in African literature and a powerful anti-war statement.