Kaboré raises the question of what "progress" does to established peoples and what is lost when villages are urbanized or when money driven relationships supplant bonds of mutual favors and obligations. He is heavy handed, but not inaccurate is his portrayal of westernized Africans who no longer value the folkways of their parents and grandparents. Though he portrays them as kind caring parents and spouses, he also notes their corruption and their willingness to crush anything that might jeopardize their social and economic position.
But this is a timeless story of "progress" that could be played out without corruption or greed, whenever modern and ancient cultures collide. Kaboré asks the questions, shapes our sympathies, and does not or cannot give answers.
But this is a timeless story of "progress" that could be played out without corruption or greed, whenever modern and ancient cultures collide. Kaboré asks the questions, shapes our sympathies, and does not or cannot give answers.
