Here's a breakdown of how this tension plays out:
Tradition:
* Cultural Heritage: African writers often explore the rich tapestry of indigenous cultures, traditions, languages, and beliefs. They celebrate these elements, but also acknowledge the challenges of preserving them in the face of colonialism and globalization.
* Social Structures: Traditional social structures, kinship systems, and modes of governance often clash with the Western systems imposed during colonialism.
* Oral Tradition: The importance of storytelling and oral tradition, a vital part of African culture, is juxtaposed with the dominance of written narratives.
Modernity:
* Colonial Legacy: Writers grapple with the lasting effects of colonialism, including political instability, economic exploitation, and the imposition of Western ideologies.
* Urbanization and Globalization: The rapid pace of modernization, urbanization, and globalization brings about changes that challenge traditional values and ways of life.
* Western Influence: The impact of Western education, technology, and culture is often explored, raising questions about identity, belonging, and the influence of external forces.
The Tension:
* Conflict and Adaptation: Characters often navigate the conflict between their traditional values and the demands of modern life, sometimes leading to internal struggles and identity crises.
* Resistance and Assimilation: Writers explore the different ways individuals and communities resist colonial influence and adapt to the realities of the postcolonial world.
* Search for Identity: The tension between tradition and modernity fuels a search for a distinct African identity in the face of Western dominance.
Examples in Literature:
* Chinua Achebe's _Things Fall Apart_ depicts the clash between traditional Igbo society and British colonial rule.
* Ngugi wa Thiong'o's _A Grain of Wheat_ examines the struggles of Kenyans in the aftermath of the Mau Mau rebellion.
* Wole Soyinka's _Death and the King's Horseman_ explores the tension between Yoruba traditions and the imposition of British law.
By exploring the complexities of this tension, postcolonial African literature provides insightful commentary on the challenges and possibilities of postcolonial existence. It offers a nuanced understanding of the African experience, celebrating cultural heritage while acknowledging the ongoing struggles for self-determination and a unified identity.