So Long a Letter

Description

So Long a Letter is a powerful feminist novel by Senegalese author Mariama Bâ, written as an intimate letter from Ramatoulaye, a recently widowed woman, to her childhood friend Aissatou. Set in post-independence Senegal, the story reflects on Ramatoulaye’s personal experiences with marriage, polygamy, motherhood, and societal expectations.

After her husband takes a much younger second wife without her consent, Ramatoulaye uses the letter to process her grief, betrayal, and resilience. Through this personal and emotional narrative, the novel critiques the deeply rooted gender inequalities in Senegalese society, while celebrating female friendship, education, and inner strength.

With lyrical prose and heartfelt honesty, So Long a Letter remains a landmark in African literature and a foundational text in African feminist writing.