Even where the world persists in its impeccable strides towards a seeming destiny of self-destruct, the still, small voice of humanity refuses to be silenced, nor its zeal of mission diminished. That mission is lodged securely in the body of books — books from the ancients to the present, offering spaces of consolation and reflection even amidst the clang of the engines of hate and divisions, across the arrogance of power and conceit of national grandeur
AN author’s encounter with pirated copies of his or her work is not the most inspiring of social responses to the literary occupation. It is also a sad reflection on such societies and the slack understanding of government to the meaning and responsibilities of copyright — the fundamental entitlement to intellectual property.
As we celebrate yet another day dedicated to this product of human enlightenment, we should dedicate ourselves to the protection of this cornerstone in the intellectual edifice of humanity, across nations, races, faiths, cultures and histories.
Even where the world persists in its impeccable strides towards a seeming destiny of self-destruct, the still, small voice of humanity refuses to be silenced, nor its zeal of mission diminished. That mission is lodged securely in the body of books — books from the ancients to the present, offering spaces of consolation and reflection even amidst the clang of the engines of hate and divisions, across the arrogance of power and conceit of national grandeur.
The book remains both consolation and affirmation of alternative understanding that may yet salvage humanity from the rubble of the present.
Wole SOYINKA
23/4/2024
