Ocol’s Attacks as a Reflection of the Western Perception of African Culture and Tradition in Song of Lawino and Song of Ocol by Okot p’Bitek

Abstract

This paper uses postcolonial criticism theory to analyze Okot p’Bitek’s Song of Lawino and Song of Ocol. It explores how Ocol’s attacks on African culture and tradition can be seen as a reflection of Western perceptions. Through a close reading of the two poems, the paper examines the themes of cultural identity, colonization, and the clash between African and Western values. The analysis considers the ways in which Ocol’s rejection of his own cultural heritage higlights the influence of Western education and values. Ultimately, the paper contends that Okot p’Bitek’s works provide a powerful critique of the ways in which Western perceptions of African culture have contributed to the erosion of traditional values and the marginalization of African voices.