Brazzaville Gathers for the First Celebration of the Phratry
The auditorium of the French Institute of Brazzaville filled up early on October 28th as authors, students, and cultural leaders welcomed the first edition of the Day of the Phratry. This commemoration, organized three decades after the death of novelist Sylvain Bemba, aims to build closer ties within the Congolese creative community.
A Concept Born from Sylvain Bemba’s Vision
The term “phratry” was created to describe a state of fraternal commitment between creators. Literature was described as “a movement that unites committed individuals,” asserting that a shared goal can outlast individual careers and political seasons.
Honoring Giants of Congolese Letters
The authors who first embraced the ideals of the Phratry were listed – Sony Labou Tansi, Tati Loutard, Emmanuel Dongala, Henri Lopes, and Tchicaya U Tam’ Si. Their collective stance projected Congolese voices onto international stages without silencing predecessors like Jean Malonga or Patrice Lhoni.
Solidarity as a Creative Engine
“By proclaiming the Phratry, our elders forged a lasting chain,” it was observed, suggesting that a writer’s greatest resource is their fellow writers. This sentiment resonated with the young novelists in the audience.
The French Institute Highlights Global Resonance
It was emphasized how the authors of the Phratry have become staples in French-language curricula worldwide. “Today, we celebrate their texts as national and global heritage,” was stated, positioning Congo’s literary legacy within a broader Francophone space spanning three continents.
Events That Bring Pages to Life
The program offered more than just speeches. Visitors lingered over a photo exhibition tracing ninety years of Congolese publishing milestones. Later, a roundtable analyzed La Revue Liaison, the journal that catalyzed early debates on form and identity. Screenings and staged readings kept the dialogue going until nightfall.
Remembering Through Cinema and Theater
A restored copy of Dialo Diawara’s documentary “Diogenes in Brazzaville” sparked reflection on post-independence urbanity. Equally captivating was “The Interrupted Waltz,” a dramatic adaptation linking historical ruptures to personal loss. The performance received sustained applause for its nuanced portrayal of creative doubt.
New Voices Claim Their Space
Emerging writers shared drafts during an open mic segment, illustrating the living dimension of the Phratry. Their verses tackled daily survival, humorous slang, and ecological concerns, showing that solidarity does not preclude stylistic experimentation or generational critique.
The Challenges of Publishing in the Digital Age
Between sessions, delegates discussed rising printing costs and limited shelf space in local bookstores. Some argued for pooled resources to negotiate with regional distributors, while others advocated for e-books and podcasts. A consensus formed around the call: “The bond between us is the first step towards any solution.”