“The Swamp Dwellers” by WoleSoyinka.

The Swamp Dwellers examines the suffering and hardships of the people living in Nigeria-Delta. The suffering of Nigerian people has been guided by the federal thoughtlessness and domination. The purpose of writing this story is to keep focus on the society operating through modification between the city and the country. Although there are many characters in the story, the main theme revolves around the story of a woman named Alu. Through the character of Alu, the author has presented the concept of aspiration and determination, especially focusing on women. The story also contrasts the differences between the traditions and modernity of living in southern Nigeria

The Swamp Dwellers is a play of worldwide appeal. It talks about distant rural and urban society, family life, conflict of old and new society, psychological conflicts between old and young generations, love for modernity and love for the swamp the supernatural, unfavorable forces of nature and so many problems. He focuses on family ties, love for family, hints of love in trivial quarrel between the married in the play.

The Swamp Dwellers is primarily concerned about social changes. An easy access to shortly abundant oil has caused the social changes and has an impact on human relationships in many African countries especially in Nigeria during mid-twentiethcentury. The play demonstrates how a money-making society is ruined, and falls into a deep tension, disappointment and frustration. The play concentrates on the conflict between the old and the young who are constantly approaching for better life. The clash between custom and innovation is also reflected in the play. It also investigates the existentialist elements, and finds parity between the old and the new. The priest Kadiye becomes fatter with gifts demanded in the name of the serpent. The serpent is pacified whenever his high priest Kadiye receives gifts from the swamp dwellers.

The Swamp Dwellers makes use of contrast, parallelism, humor and irony in a suitable manner. Soyinka focuses the plight of the swamp dwellers in the play realistically. The swamp dwellers are at the mercy of furious nature unless they compromise tradition with modernity, embrace modern technology they wouldn’t have a bright future.