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Cover of Song of Lawino
Poetry· Uganda

Song of Lawino

by Okot p'Bitek
Aggregate Editorial Score30/100
Published 1966Acholi
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About This Book

Few works of poetry have earned the sustained critical attention that Song of Lawino (1966) by Okot p'Bitek continues to receive. Song of Lawino is a seminal work in African literature, written in the form of a long poem. It explores the cultural tensions between traditional African values and Western influences through the voice of Lawino, a woman lamenting her husband's abandonment of their heritage. The poem is celebrated for its vivid imagery, emotional depth, and its critique of colonialism and cultural imperialism. Themes of cultural identity, colonialism, tradition vs. modernity run through the work.

Book Details

AuthorOkot p'Bitek
Published1966
Country of Origin🇺🇬 Uganda
LanguageAcholi
Category🌿 Poetry
ISBN9789966463606
Editorial Score30/100
About the Category

🌿 Poetry

Collections of verse spanning lyric, epic, and experimental forms.

Explore all Poetry books →
Country of Origin

🇺🇬 Uganda

This book is part of Uganda's rich literary tradition.

Explore books from Uganda →

Editorial Assessment

Okot p'Bitek published Song of Lawino in 1966, and it has since become one of the more widely recognised works of poetry from Uganda. The book's treatment of cultural identity, colonialism, tradition vs. modernity, gender roles accounts for much of its enduring reputation. With an editorial score of 30/100 drawn from 1 independent sources, the book occupies a well-documented position in the critical literature. Its recognition spans international prizes, "best of" lists, and academic surveys. Readers coming to Song of Lawino for the first time will find a work that rewards patience. The book's handling of cultural identity, colonialism, tradition vs. modernity, gender roles is layered rather than didactic, and a second reading often reveals dimensions the first pass only hinted at. Okot p'Bitek's role in the literature of Uganda is well established. Song of Lawino can be read as both a standalone achievement and as part of a broader national literary conversation about identity, history, and the possibilities of narrative form.
About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from 1 independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.

Awards & Recognition

Guardian 100 Best Novels
list · global
20020
✍️
About the Author
Okot p'Bitek
Uganda
View Author →

Okot p'Bitek is a Uganda author whose work in poetry has earned recognition from readers and critics alike.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Song of Lawino about?

Song of Lawino is a seminal work in African literature, written in the form of a long poem. It explores the cultural tensions between traditional African values and Western influences through the voice of Lawino, a woman lamenting her husband's abandonment of their heritage. The poem is celebrated for its vivid imagery, emotional depth, and its critique of colonialism and cultural imperialism.

Who wrote Song of Lawino?

Song of Lawino was written by Okot p'Bitek, from Uganda. First published in 1966.

What awards has Song of Lawino won?

Song of Lawino has received the following recognition: notable critical recognition.

Is Song of Lawino worth reading?

Song of Lawino is a well-regarded book with an aggregate editorial score of 30/100 on 50 Best Books. It is particularly recommended for readers interested in cultural identity, colonialism, tradition vs. modernity.

Where can I buy Song of Lawino?

You can buy Song of Lawino on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is Song of Lawino?

Song of Lawino is classified as Poetry. Collections of verse spanning lyric, epic, and experimental forms.

What country is Song of Lawino from?

Song of Lawino originates from Uganda's literary tradition. Explore more books from Uganda on our country page.

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