Table of Contents
Citation: Abbas, Y. & Kabir, J. (2024). Unveiling Unspoken: Exploring Queer Dynamics in the 21st Century Hausa Prose Literature. Tasambo Journal of Language, Literature, and Culture, 3(1), 77-85. www.doi.org/10.36349/tjllc.2024.v03i01.009.
Unveiling Unspoken:
Exploring Queer Dynamics in the 21st Century Hausa Prose Literature
By
Dr. Yahaya Abbas
Jamilu Kabir
Department of Hausa
,
Federal University Dutsin-Ma,
Katsina
, Nigeria
Phone Number1: +234 8036796121
Phone Number1: +234 7067708766
Email1:
yabbas@fudutsinma.edu.ng
Email2:
jkabir@fudutsinma.edu.ng
Abstract
This research
meticulously examines queer elements
within a carefully selected Hausa novel. The paper aims to identify queerness in
selected Hausa novels and to unravel the intentions of authors. As Hausa literature
becomes a space for cultural exploration, this article contributes to the discourse
on queer representations. Employing queer theory, the study combines systematic
textual analysis and insightful author interviews to explore the portrayal of queer
elements within the specific subset of Hausa prose. Findings from this exploration
reveal deliberate navigation by Hausa novelists through societal norms, illustrating
a subtle yet impactful inclusion of queer elements. For instance, the literature
often offers nuanced perspectives on identity, love, and societal expectations,
subtly challenging prevailing norms. This nuanced incorporation not only stimulates
readers' emotions but also potentially enhances the marketability of these novels.
Many interviewed authors express
scepticism about promoting non-normative sexual orientations, drawing attention
to the cautious dance between cultural authenticities and evolving societal expectations.
This scepticism often stems from concerns about the reception of such elements within
the Hausa literary landscape. However, these reservations also underline a recognition
that unconventional experiences find resonance within a limited yet significant
portion of Hausa society.
Keywords:
Sexual Orientations, Gender Identities, Heteronormativity, Societal
Norms, Textual Analysis
1.0 Introduction
Historically, Hausa literature
found its voice in oral tales, folk stories, and poetry, mirroring the values and
traditions of the Hausa community. The advent of written literature in the 20th
century brought about a significant change, with both established and emerging writers
exploring a variety of themes such as fantasy, heroism, political intrigue, romance,
and different storytelling techniques, injecting a contemporary flair into the traditional
art of storytelling.
The 21st century has witnessed
a fascinating diversification of themes in Hausa prose literature. While timeless
topics like love, culture, and societal norms persist, there's a noticeable exploration
of contemporary issues. Authors delve into socio-political dynamics, technological
influences, globalization, and various aspects of modern life.
In this landscape, a distinct
genre has emerged known as Queer literature, primarily housed on the Internet through
platforms like Facebook, Whatsapp, Wattpad, Telegram, Google, YouTube, Okada Application,
Instagram, and others. Cultivated by young writers aged 17 to 30 (Kabir, 2022).
Queer literature explores the intricacies of Queer life, presenting a departure
from traditional storytelling with its contemporary style.
The study specifically concentrates
on selected Hausa prose novels, unravelling the queer elements within this subset.
Through a combination of systematic textual analysis and author interviews.
The Queer novels examined are fictitious stories that entail descriptions
of nudity and explicit sexuality. It explores queer themes of lesbian, gay, and
bisexual. Female writers frequently navigate the intricacies of marital life within
their narratives, presenting a spectrum of experiences.
The queer instances exemplified
in the selected Hausa novels depict a nuanced and diverse portrayal of queer life.
From intimate encounters and desires to societal challenges. These narratives reflect
the intricate dynamics of the LGBTQ+ community within the cultural landscape of
Hausa society. Importantly, the deliberate choice of authors to publish their works
online speaks to an awareness of a specific audience actively seeking queer literature
in the digital realm.
A notable aspect of this literary
movement is the deliberate choice of authors to publish their work on the Internet,
reflecting an awareness of a specific audience actively seeking Queer literature
in this digital realm. This selectivity indicates a nuanced understanding among
readers attuned to the distinctive narratives within the realm of Queer literature
on the Internet.
Navigating the contemporary landscape of Hausa prose literature, our
focus is not merely on the evident evolution of themes, diverse voices, and narrative
intricacies. Instead, our mission is to uncover the concealed, shedding light on
the queer elements intricately woven into selected Hausa novels. In this 21st-century
Hausa society, our study aims to expose, understand, and contribute to the discourse
on queer dynamics within this rich literary tradition.
2.0 Literature Review
The trajectory of queer literature
has undergone a significant evolution, navigating the contours of non-normative
sexual orientations and gender identities across various literary genres, including
novels and poetry. In the early 20th century, the term "queer" carried
a derogatory connotation, often used as a pejorative slang term for homosexuality.
During this period, literature addressing same-sex desires and relationships manifested
subtextually or through coded expressions.
Michel Foucault (1978) marked
a pivotal moment by introducing the notion of sexuality as a social construct. From
Foucault's lens, queer literature became a medium to explore how societal norms
regulate and define sexual behaviour.
Eve Kosofsky Sedgwick (1990) delved
into the concealed aspects of non-heteronormative identities, unearthing and challenging
societal norms regarding sexuality and identity.
Judith Butler (1990), in her seminal
work "Gender Trouble," launched a critical discourse by challenging traditional
conceptions of gender and sexuality. According to Butler, queer literature disrupts
established norms by questioning the stability of categories like 'male' and 'female.'
Teresa de Lauretis (1991) extended
the exploration into the intersectionality of queerness, contending that queer literature
not only addresses sexuality but also delves into its intersections with gender,
race, and class.
Lee Edelman (2004) challenged
societal preoccupation with futurity, asserting that queer literature disrupts normative
narratives by resisting the pressure to conform to reproductive futurism.
In examining the treatment of
homosexuality in 21st-century Nigerian literature, Lindsey Green-Simms (2016) discussed
how the literary community critiques discourses of homophobia and explores the everyday
fears, desires, pleasures, and anxieties of those who experience same-sex attraction.
Jamilu Kabir (2022) has demonstrated that literature often labelled
as queer literature essentially entails depicting and portraying themes such as
prostitution, alcohol consumption, homosexuality, lesbianism, dancing, and nudity
within written works.
The novel "Ghana Must Go"
by Taiye Selasi (2013) introduces a significant queer element through the character
Taiwo, who faces challenges related to his sexual identity. Taiwo's experiences
are intricately woven into the broader exploration of themes such as identity, family
dynamics, migration, and the impact of concealed truths on relationships. This adds
a poignant thread to the complex tapestry of the novel, contributing to the nuanced
portrayal of familial and individual struggles.
In Chinelo Okparanta's "Under
the Udala Trees" (2015), the narrative centres around a lesbian relationship
between the protagonist, Ijeoma, and another girl during the Nigerian Civil War.
This queer element serves as a focal point, threading through the exploration of
intricate themes. The novel delves deeply into the complexities of identity, love,
and societal expectations, offering a poignant commentary on the intersection of
personal desires and the broader socio-political landscape of Nigeria.
"Speak No Evil" (2018)
by Uzodinma Iweala addresses the challenges faced by a gay Nigerian-American teenager,
introducing a significant queer element. This element becomes a lens through which
the narrative explores broader themes of identity, race, and the conflict between
personal desires and cultural expectations. The character's journey serves as a
compelling narrative arc, adding depth to the exploration of societal and individual
struggles.
Jowhor Ile's novel, "And
After Many Days" (2016), incorporates a queer element through a subplot involving
the protagonist's brother grappling with his sexuality. This element intertwines
with the broader narrative, where themes of family, loss, and self-discovery take
centre stage. The exploration of the brother's experiences adds layers to the novel's
portrayal of familial relationships and the individual quest for self-understanding
within the context of Nigerian society.
"The Hairdresser of Harare"
by Tendai Huchu (2010) features a gay protagonist working in a hair salon in Harare,
Zimbabwe. This queer element is integral to the novel's exploration of themes such
as identity, secrecy, and the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community. The character's
experiences provide a lens through which the narrative navigates the complexities
of personal and communal identity, shedding light on the struggles within the cultural
landscape of Zimbabwe.
In Jayawa` work (2004), the intricate
definition of prostitution takes centre stage, particularly in its application to
the narrative found in 'Yartsana.' The analysis extends across diverse contexts,
encompassing both rural and urban settings, and probes into various manifestations
of prostitution, including street and brothel-based scenarios. The study thoughtfully
dissects how elements of pornography are interwoven into the fabric of the book's
narrative.
Shehu's (2012) scholarly contribution
orbits the elucidation of prostitution, delving into its historical roots and origins
within the Hausaland. The research provides a succinct history of written Hausa
stories, underscoring their profound significance in the tapestry of Hausa life.
This scholarly investigation culminates in a meticulous examination of specific
literary works, namely
“`
Ya
`
yan Hutu,
“
Ƙ
wai Tara Tsinana,
”
and
“
ÆŠ
a ko Jika.
”
In a thought-provoking exploration,
Abubakar
(2014) sheds light on the domain of queer theory and its manifestation
within an African context. Employing this theoretical framework, Lawal scrutinizes
Hausa novels like “Kyan
ÆŠ
an Miciji” and “Wane Kare Ne…,”
unravelling the intricacies within the text. The study adeptly connects written
Hausa stories to modern life, forging a link between Sakina's work and the broader
concept of queer theory.
Gambo (2017) contributes to the
discourse by providing a comprehensive description of deleterious lifestyles, encapsulating
realms such as drug abuse, homosexuality, prostitution, and lesbianism. The study
meticulously outlines the causal factors behind these societal issues, weaving connections
to influences from foreign films, modern communication methods, and deficiencies
in parental care.
Ango's (2019) scholarly endeavor
delves into the nuanced meaning and causes of lesbianism, spanning historical and
contemporary dimensions. The research provides insights into the multifaceted role
of lesbianism in society, delineating various types and the locales frequented by
those engaged in such activities. Additionally, the work explores the physiological
and psychological indicators of prostitutes, delving into the dynamics of polygamy,
its causative factors, and the challenges faced by polygamists.
Sheme (2003) focuses attention
on queer life, particularly in its intersection with prostitution. The research
elucidates the diverse types of prostitutes and their lifestyles across various
settings, emphasizing the integral role of prostitution within the realm of queer
literature.
The review aims for a critical
discussion of how these global theories interact with and inform the analysis of
specific Hausa novels. This shift ensures a seamless transition from a global exploration
of queer literature to a more localized and focused investigation of queer elements
within the cultural tapestry of Hausa prose literature.
The inclusion of contemporary
works serves not just as an endpoint but as a bridge, connecting these broader theories
to practical manifestations within the Hausa literary landscape. Thus, the literature
review becomes a roadmap, guiding the reader from global theories to their localized
applications, setting the stage for a detailed exploration of queer dynamics within
selected Hausa prose novels.
3.0 Queer Theory and its Evolution: A Framework for Unveiling Unspoken
Narratives in 2
1st
Century Hausa Prose Literature
Queer theory, born out of the
LGBTQ+ rights movements of the late 20th century, challenges normative assumptions
about sexuality and gender. It seeks to disrupt traditional notions, prompting a
reevaluation of how societies perceive and categorize identities. This theoretical
framework plays a crucial role in contextualizing the exploration of queer dynamics
in 21st-century Hausa prose literature.
The inception of queer theory
can be traced back to the early 1990s, with scholars like Judith Butler and Eve
Kosofsky Sedgwick at its forefront. Butler's groundbreaking work, particularly in
"Gender Trouble" (1990), posited that gender is performative, challenging
established binaries and asserting the fluidity of identities. Sedgwick, in "Epistemology
of the Closet" (1990), delved into the construction of homosexuality and heterosexuality,
emphasizing the social and cultural contexts that shape these categories.
As queer theory evolved, it expanded
its scope beyond sexuality to encompass broader issues of identity, challenging
normative structures and inviting a more intersectional approach. It questions power
dynamics, encouraging scholars to examine how societal norms oppress certain groups.
Within the framework of this article,
queer theory provides a lens for interpreting the representation of non-heteronormative
identities in Hausa prose literature. It offers a conceptual tool for understanding
how authors in this tradition engage with and subvert traditional norms, thereby
contributing to a more inclusive and nuanced narrative landscape. The exploration
of queer dynamics within the context of the article aligns with the fundamental
tenets of queer theory, aiming to unravel and challenge ingrained assumptions about
sexuality, gender, and identity.
Specifically, in applying queer
theory to Hausa literature, the study will draw on key concepts from these scholars.
For instance, it will analyze how the performative nature of gender, as posited
by Butler, manifests in the portrayal of characters and relationships within selected
Hausa novels. Moreover, Sedgwick's exploration of the social construction of sexuality
will guide the examination of how Hausa authors navigate and challenge these constructions
in their works.
Furthermore, this study acknowledges
the importance of an intersectional approach. Beyond sexuality and gender, it will
explore how factors such as race, class, and religion intersect with queer identities
in the context of Hausa literature. Recognizing the limitations inherent in applying
a Western-centric theory to a distinct cultural setting like Hausa society, the
study anticipates potential challenges and aims to navigate them with sensitivity.
In essence, this theoretical framework
establishes the groundwork for a nuanced exploration of queer dynamics in 21st-century
Hausa prose literature, ensuring a contextualized and culturally sensitive analysis.
4.0 Methodologies
This research employs a mixed-methods
approach, integrating systematic textual analysis and author interviews to discern
and elucidate instances of queer elements within carefully selected Hausa novels
of the 21st century.
Textual Analysis Details
The systematic textual analysis
involves a comprehensive examination of the chosen novels, utilizing literary theories
such as queer theory. Close reading techniques will be applied to identify keywords,
recurring themes, and narrative devices employed by authors to represent queer dynamics.
The analysis will also explore how these elements intersect with broader cultural
and societal contexts within Hausa literature.
Sample Selection Criteria
The selection of novels adheres
to a meticulous process, considering various factors to ensure a representative
sample. Novels were chosen based on themes, publication dates, and author demographics
to capture the diverse landscape of 21st-century Hausa prose literature. This ensures
a well-rounded understanding of how queer elements manifest within different contexts
and periods.
Interview Sampling Process
The authors selected for interviews
were chosen through a combination of purposive and snowball sampling. Purposive
sampling targeted authors whose works prominently feature queer elements, while
snowball sampling leveraged existing connections within the Hausa literary community.
This dual approach aims to gather insights from authors with diverse perspectives
and experiences related to queer representation.
Data Analysis Techniques
Data analysis will be a multi-stage
process. For textual data, thematic analysis will be employed to identify patterns
and meanings related to queer elements.
Ethical Considerations
Recognizing the sensitivity of
the research topic, ethical considerations are paramount. Informed consent will
be obtained from all participating authors, emphasizing their right to withdraw
at any stage. Pseudonyms will be used in reporting to ensure confidentiality. The
research adheres to ethical guidelines and respects the cultural nuances of discussing
queer themes in the context of Hausa literature. The goal is to foster an environment
of trust and openness in the interviews, acknowledging the potential impact of the
research on both participants and the broader literary community.
5.0 A Textual Analysis of Queer Elements in Contemporary Hausa Novels
Contemporary Hausa novels exhibit
a notable shift in narrative dynamics, with authors boldly introducing and exploring
queer elements. This departure from traditional norms signals a new style of narration
and themes in Hausa novels. In this segment, we present instances from selected
novels, providing both the original Hausa text and English translations. This dual
presentation aims to facilitate a nuanced understanding of the queer elements within
the cultural and linguistic context of Hausa literature.
1. "Auren Jinsi" by
Haleemah Abdullahi Shu’aib (Ummu Basmah)
Original Hausa Text:
“Nazla ta fara kissing
É—
in Laila ta ko’ina ta ce “halina
fa da ke, ke nan ke turarema baki iya sawa. Kissing suke yi wa junansu ta ko’ina
har suka fita hayyacinsu”(Auren Jinsi:7.Haleemah Abdullahi Shu’aib Ummu Basmah)
English Translation:
"Nazla started kissing Laila all over and said, "
This is my problem with you, you cannot even put on some perfume.
They
continued to
kiss each other until they los
t
their senses"
” (Auren Jinsi:
7.
Written by
Haleemah Abdullahi Shu’aib
Ummu Basmah)
.
Analysis:
In this text, the intimate interaction
between Nazla and Laila Depicts intimate moments between two female characters,
potentially challenging heteronormative expectations. The emphasis on perfume, a
sensory element, suggests a delicate negotiation with societal norms. The kiss becomes
a vehicle for transcending conventional boundaries, reflecting the intricate dance
between desire and societal expectations. The scene challenges traditional expectations,
presenting an intimate encounter between women, possibly symbolizing a departure
from societal norms.
2. "`Yar Lesbian Ce"
(9-19) by Nadeeya Muhammad Ahmad
Original Hausa Text:
Tura
É—
akin ta yi ta daka mata duka tas
h
i sarkin sha`awa, bu
É—
e ido Feenat ta yi, ta mayar ta lumshe, Leemah ashe za ki
zo? Eh kin san ba zan iya barinki a irin halin na ba
”
.
“
Haka Feenat ta fa
É—
a yayin da ta jawo Leemah jikinta, bakinta ta saka cikin na
leemah lokaci
É—
aya ta fara tsotsar lips
É—
inta ta kamo harshenta ta ringa tsotsa kamar lollypop,
nan take Leemah ta kamu ta fara maida martani, cire mata `yar
Æ™
aramar rigar jikinta ta yi, brest
É—
inta suka bayyana ta ringa shafa su tana murzawa,
tuni Feenat ta fita hayyacinta don ko mayarwa ba ta iyawa. Hannu Leemah ta tura
cikin pant
É—
inta ta ringa murzawa, nishi
kawai suke Ahhhh! Washhh! Kusan minti 30 suka yi a haka feenat ta kankameta alamar
ta yi release. (`Yar Lesbian Ce (9-19 Nadeeya Muhammad Ahmad)
English Translation:
She barged into the room, gave
Feenat a hearty pat on the back, and declared, "Wake up, queen
of
desire." Feenat, blinking her eyes open, turned to find Leemah
standing there. Expressing her surprise, she said, "Leemah, I didn't expect
you to show up." Leemah replied, "Well, I can't just leave you in this
state." Feenat responded by pulling Leemah closer, initiating an intimate encounter.
The p
assion ignited as Feenat passionately kissed Leemah,
exploring her with desire. Things escalated with the exposure of breasts and explicit
actions, with Feenat losing herself in the moment. Leemah, equally engaged, reached
into Feenat's pants, and they both moaned in pleasure. This continued for about
30 minutes before Feenat signalled to conclude the encounter (‘Yar Lesbian Ce: 9-19
written by Nadeeya Muhammad Ahmad).
Analysis:
The narrative depicts
an
explicit portrayal of a lesbian encounter with detailed actions. The
sudden intrusion of Leemah into Feenat's space creates a charged atmosphere, implying
a hidden connection. The metaphorical "queen of desire" sets the tone
for a passionate encounter. The encounter is both a breach of societal norms and
an assertion of personal desire, revealing the intricate interplay between societal
expectations and individual identities.
3. "Aljanu a Makarantar Kwana"
by Kamalu Namowa Kanawa Bichi
Original Hausa Text:
“.........Habah Sakeena! A
gaskiya kin wajiga min ruhina. Don haka ina fatan zaki yi ha
Æ™
uri yau mu
kai asubahi muna Farantawa junanmu rai, kin ga ke nan duk mun huce gajiyarmu ta
kwana da kwanaki koko me kika gani
”
ta kuma yi shiru ta na mayar da numfashi sama-sama kamar
mai cutar asma. Ha
Æ™
i
Æ™
a Sakeena
tafiya ta yi tafiya duk abin da Naseera take fa
É—
i ba a cikin hayyacinta take
ba, sai dai
É—
aga kai kawai
take yi. Ita kuwa Naseera da ta ga haka sai ta ci gaba da abin da ta ga dama da
Sakeena”(Aljanu a Makarantar Kwana:
9.
Kamalu Namowa Kanawa Bichi)
English Translation:
".........
oh
Sakeena
!
You broke my soul. So I hope you will be patient
today and we will make each other happy
till
morning.
It will make us relax and put aside our old boredom and tiredness
. What did you see? Sakeena
was quite not responding to Naseera, but rather breathing
in and out like an asthmatic patient. She had lost consciousness, she did not understand
whatever Naseera was saying, she was not in her
senses, but she was just raising her head. As for Naseera, when she saw
her situation
, she continued what she wanted
with Sakeena" (Demons in the Boarding School: 9. Kamalu Namowa Kanawa Bichi)
Analysis:
The portrayal of Sakeena's unconscious
state emphasizes vulnerability. Naseera's persistence reveals a desire that transcends
societal norms, creating a space for an intimate connection. The use of morning
as a metaphor for renewal and the acknowledg
e
ment of boredom and tiredness hint at a desire for escape and emotional
connection.
4. "Sirrin Wasu Gayu"
by Zuwairat Haladu
Original Hausa Text:
“Wait a minute Safwan ya fa
É—
a mashi sai da ya gama le
Æ™
a ko
’
ina na
É—
akin sannan ya umurci yaron
ya shiga bathroom, with confidence ya shiga, kaman wasa Safwan ya samu erection,
to cut the dirty thing short duk
Æ™
o
Æ™
arin Adam
sai da ya yi kuka sai shushing
É—
in shi Safwan
yake yana cewa ya yi shiru ko ya amshe wayar shi, he tries to be gentle amma babu
gentility tare da Safwan, komai nashi na mugunta, haka ya
cimma burin shi ya sadu da yaron cikin bathroom,
É—
in uban shi”
(Sirrin Wasu Gayu:
1080-1081.
Zuwairat Haladu).
English Translation:
"Wait a minute," Safwan said to him, and when he
finished looking around the room, he ordered the boy to enter the bathroom.
The boy entered the bathroom confidently. Before you know
it, Safwan got
an
erection. To cut the dirty thing short. The boy
had to cry even though tried not to. Safwan was
shushing him
,
saying to be quiet or
else he w
ould
collect back his
phone
.
He tries to be gentle but there is no gentility
with Safwan
.
Safwan is known to be rude always. He finally
achieved his goal and met
with
the boy in
his father`s
bathroom”
.
(Sirrin Wasu Gayu: 1080-1081. Written by Zuwairat
Haladu).
Analysis:
Safwan's actions reveal a power
dynamic that goes beyond societal norms, raising questions about consent and exploitation.
The contrast between the confident entry of the boy and his subsequent distress
underlines the complexity of the situation. The use of "dirty thing" hints
at the moral ambiguity surrounding the encounter.
5. "Ragon Miji" by Amina
Lawal Shalele (Maman Mamy)
Original Hausa Text:
“Wani abu take ji ta
É—
an tattara natsuwarta ba kome
ba ne, sai hannun shi da yake rawa-rawa, a haka ya fara shafo
Æ™
ugunta zuwa
saman kanta, hannun shi na kyarma ya zare
É—
ankwalin
kanta, yana shasshafa gashin kanta, du
k
da kayan da ke jikinta ba
Æ™
aramin da
É—
i yake ji ba. A sannu ya kai
hannunsa saman tudun breast
É—
inta yana
fidda numfashi ya yi
Æ™
o
Æ™
ari ya sanya
shi cikin rigar yana shasshafa saman nonuwanta: Ragon Miji:190, Amina Lawal Shalele
(Maman Mamy)
English Translation:
"She felt something, she gathered her composure, it was
nothing, but his hand was
sh
i
vering
, then he began to touch her
waist to the top of her head, his hand was
still shivering, he
removed her
head tie
, touching her hair, even though
she was wearing
clothes
, but yet he feels a pleasant
sensation
. He put
s
his hand slowly on her
hilltop
breast while exhaling
. He
tried
and put
his
hand inside
her
gow
n and
started to
touch the top of her nipples
”
.
(
Ragon Miji: 190, written by Amina Lawal Shalele
(Maman Mamy)
Analysis:
While the scene is heteronormative,
it contributes to the broader theme of explicit sexual encounters in the novels,
showcasing diverse sexual content. The narrative captures a moment of intimacy tinged
with discomfort. The shivering hands and the act of undressing symbolize a breach
of personal boundaries. The juxtaposition of physical actions with the internal
pleasant sensation reflects the complexity of desire and the internal conflicts
associated with unconventional relationships.
6. "Sirrin Wasu Gayu"
by Zuwairat Haladu
Original Hausa Text:
“Kneeling ya sanya babbar ta
yi ya fara saduwa da ita ta baya” (Sirrin Wasu Gayu:
630.
Zuwairat
Haladu)
English Translation:
"
He made her kneel and start to enjoy her from behind
" (Sirrin Wasu Gayu: 630. Zuwairat Haladu)
Analysis:
The text implies heterosexual
intimacy with explicit details. The use of "kneeling " and "enjoy
her from behind" suggests a power dynamic that raises questions about consent
and agency. This instance introduces a physicality that may transcend conventional
boundaries, emphasizing a complex exploration of desire and control. The explicit
nature of the scene adds to the broader theme of explicit sexual encounters in the
novels.
7. "Jahan Khatoon" by
Khadija Bashir (Matar Basakkwace) & Fatima Mustapha (Aunty Baby)
Original
Hausa Text:
Hajiya Najah fa sai kara lashe baki take tana kallo nonuwan
kowacce a cikinsu. Ta ce “babies kuna da da
É—
i wallahi ko za ku
Æ™
aramin? Murmushi Jahdamah ta yi ta ce,
“
haba Hajiya duk cin ki
É—
in da muka yi ba ki
Æ™
oshi ba?
”
Ta ce,
“
ku
É—
in ne na daban ne, kuna da
wata ni`ima da ban ta
É“
a samu ba a jikin wata mace
”
(Jahan Khatoon: 27 Khadija Bashir (Matar Basakkwace) &
Fatima Mustapha (Aunty Baby)
English Translation:
Hajiya Najah, growing increasingly
excited, focused on the breasts of each of the ladies. She expressed, "Babies,
you're so delightful. If you don't mind, I'd like to engage in more intimate activities
with you." Jahdamah, with a smile, retorted, "Hey Hajiya, aren't you satisfied
with all that we've done with you?" She responded, "You're different,
you possess a special quality I've never found in a woman's body" (Jahan Khatoon:
27 Khadija Bashir (Matar Basakkwace) & Fatima Mustapha (Aunty Baby)).
Analysis:
This scene contributes to the
portrayal of diverse intimate encounters, including a desire for more explicit activities
between women, and challenging societal norms. This instance introduces Hajiya Najah's
excitement, focusing on the physical attributes of the ladies. The use of "delightful"
and the desire for more intimate activities suggest a nuanced exploration of pleasure.
Jahdamah's playful response and Hajiya's acknowledgement of a unique quality emphasize
the complex dynamics of unconventional relationships.
The selected instances from contemporary
Hausa novels portray diverse expressions of queer elements. Each narrative brings
forth unique perspectives on desire, intimacy, and societal norms. The analyses
reveal layers of complexity, prompting discussions on consent, power dynamics, and
the intricate emotions associated with non-conventional relationships within the
cultural context of Hausa literature.
These analyses emphasize the complexity
and diversity of queerness within the depicted narratives, urging a critical examination
of the portrayal of queer elements, consent, and power dynamics within the context
of each instance.
6.0 Conclusion
This research, "Unveiling
Unspoken: Exploring Queer Dynamics in 21st Century Hausa Prose Literature,"
delves into the rich tapestry of Hausa prose literature, exploring the evolution
of themes and the emergence of Queer literature in contemporary storytelling. The
study, employing queer theory, systematic textual analysis, and author interviews,
aimed to identify and understand queer elements within selected Hausa novels, shedding
light on authors' intentions.
The findings of this research
underscore the navigation of societal norms by many Hausa novelists. These writers
incorporate queer elements into their narratives, using a subtle approach to stimulate
readers' emotions and potentially enhance sales. It is noteworthy that the interviewed
authors express a degree of scepticism regarding the promotion of non-normative
sexual orientations associated with Western cultures. They assert that unconventional
experiences exist among a limited number of individuals within the Hausa society,
reflecting a nuanced negotiation between tradition and modernity.
The queer instances exemplified
in the selected Hausa novels depict a nuanced and diverse portrayal of queer life.
From intimate encounters and desires to societal challenges, these narratives reflect
the intricate dynamics of the LGBTQ+ community within the cultural landscape of
Hausa society. Importantly, the deliberate choice of authors to publish their works
online speaks to an awareness of a specific audience actively seeking queer literature
in the digital realm.
This research contributes significantly
to the discourse on queer representations in African literature, specifically in
the context of the expansive and dynamic Hausa prose tradition. It highlights the
evolving nature of storytelling, where tradition and modernity converge to paint
a vivid picture of life in 21st-century Hausa society. The delicate yet deliberate
inclusion of queer elements in these narratives underscores the literary landscape's
responsiveness to contemporary issues, making Hausa prose literature a space for
both cultural exploration and the nuanced representation of queer life.
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