A Nation in Labour

In Ber Anena’s remarkable debut collection, we encounter Uganda at a critical period of political greed, economic uncertainty, citizen disillusionment, and the insistent spirit of community and love.

In a voice that is defiant, critical and yet hopeful, Anena presents the “unweanable” president clinging onto power, the women who subvert custom to preserve their lives and voices, the victims of state inaction who question the blanket directive to move on, and the heartbroken youths who, despite the odds, “let the sun in.”

As a collection of social conscience poetry, A Nation in Labour is a vital reading in the study of present-day Uganda and its political history, African literature, contemporary women’s poetry, governance, gender studies, peace and conflict studies, as well as post-colonial studies.

 

PRAISE

“Anena offers a fearless, yet sensitive selection of imagery that brings our most intimate, visceral, and violent acts into focus with moving clarity. She has the ability to pluck fresh, arresting visuals from the familiar landscapes and stories of Uganda and tuck them into our consciousness.” ~ Gloria Kiconco, author of Return to Sender

“A Nation in Labour demonstrates the mystic ability of verse. This collection is a battle between our conscience and the social and political truths around us. Anena is a gift to the universe. I celebrate her tenacity and wit.” ~ Beverley Nambozo Nsengiyunva, author of Dress Me in Disobedience.

“This is poetry that will stay with you like the fond memory of a tough experience.” ~ Bob G. Kisiki, author of Deserted

“Daring and innovative, Anena is well on her way to becoming one of the most important poets to come out of Africa in the last quarter of a century.” ~ James Murua, founder of Writing Africa

“Reading Anena’s poems feels like biting into a freshly harvested mango.” ~ Hilda J. Twongyeirwe, Uganda Women Writers Association (FEMRITE)