Soyinka, Wole

Abstract Wole Soyinka is the first black writer and first African writer to win the Nobel Prize in Literature. Soyinka's work is known for the ways it draws on both Yoruban and Western traditions and for the ways it incorporates mythic and metaphysical elements. Although his literary career began in the theater, he has published works in nearly every genre including drama, fiction, poetry, autobiography, and literary, cultural, and political criticism. Soyinka has remained politically active throughout his career and this, at times, has put him in conflict with politicians in his home country.