Liberian Literary Magazine February Issue 0215
Liberia ’ s Deadest Ends , and The Shortness of Life : A Mongolian Lament . Liberia ’ s Deadest Ends is set in Liberia from 2004 to 2012 after the declaration of peace , as the country recovered economically and psychologically through stabilization programs , truth and reconciliation , and community development . Hence the characters are based on real events and situations over the many times I visited Liberia and worked there .
For me , the book is about the end of the ‘ deadest ends ’ ( a term that the writer Graham Greene used when describing Liberia ) and the beginning of its rebirth , recovery , and reconciliation . I love hippos so I also added the theme of Liberia ’ s hippopotamus population returning to its homeland when peace was restored . I even have a giant wooden carving of a hippopotamus in my home .
What inspired you to write this title or how did you come up with the storyline ?
The title ‘ Liberia ’ s Deadest Ends ’ is a reference to the Graham Greene novel , Journey Without Maps ( 1936 ) about his travels in West Africa .
When I started my research , and told people that I was writing about my work in Liberia , they would quote this phrase . It was a starting point in the novel , representing the past that is behind the country and the peaceful future that lies ahead .
Is there a message in your book that you want your readers to grasp ?
I think there is a message in the Liberian book for readers around the world to take courage from challenging situations , no matter how impossible they seem , even if they seem to go on endlessly . There is an end to hardship – ‘ this too will pass ’ is a phrase I use often . Conflict will end and peace will endure . Liberians have learned this through extreme suffering , but they have endured and shown extreme resilience through faith , solidarity , love , family , friendships , trust , truth and reconciliation .
In misfortune , loss , and in tragedy , people find their own strength , their own truth , their own inner sense of peace and comfort , by reaching within or by reaching out .
Is there anything else you would like readers to know about your book ?
Life is a long journey . And as Graham Greene ’ s title says , it is a journey without maps . There are u-turns , wrong turns , misguided turns , intentional distractions , unintended side trips , sudden disasters , unplanned godsends , a myriad of challenges , and even dead ends . By stopping , slowing down , breathing , and being grateful for everyday life experiences , we can take each step forward on a peaceful and meaningful course .
Do you have any advice for other writers ?
Writing is usually a solitary experience and one of concentration and determination . Write with at least one person in mind , and don ’ t worry whether the rest of the world appreciates your work or not .
If you write with passion , from the heart , there will be an audience . For practical advice I think writers should be readers . Read , read , and read some more . I read books from authors of various nationalities , experiences , and ages , because every author is unique with their own interpretations of their lives .
Reading gives a writer a |
whole larder of techniques , |
styles , character definitions , |
genres , and plots to draw |
inspiration |
and |
energy |
from . |
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I also believe that nature is a source of inspiration , because it emits peace and creativity . Culture is also inspirational for me - all arts , such as music , writing , drama , dance , poetry , and painting . I surround myself with wonderful people , invigorating nature , and beautiful art for happiness , contentment , inspiration , and creativity .
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