WRITERS AS CATALYST FOR SOCIAL CHANGE: BEYOND THE PEN
— by nishadarryllartey Growing up, the phrase “The pen is mightier than the sword” was a mind-boggling concept. I struggled to comprehend how a pen could be compared to a sword. Wisdom comes with age, as the saying goes. Over time, I learned that this was not just a cliché; it was first coined by Edward Bulwer-Lytton, an English playwright, poet, and novelist, in his 1839 play. The phrase emphasizes the power of writing, communication, and intellectual pursuits over violence and aggression. Writers have long been regarded as powerful agents of social change. Their words inspire, educate, and mobilize people to take action. From the abolition of slavery to the civil rights movement, writers have played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and influencing social justice. Some great writers whose works have been instrumental in calling for action include: In the wake of a Saturday dawn, Amina rose early as usual to start her morning chores. As she swept the compound, a chill swept over her, sending goosebumps across her skin. Her thoughts turned to her friend, Sewabatu—a 10-year-old girl forced into the “cutting ceremony” (Female Genital Mutilation). Sewabatu had confided in Amina about her mother’s plans to initiate her, recalling the scars that served as painful reminders of her mother and grandmother’s experiences. On that fateful day, Amina witnessed Sewabatu with swollen, teary eyes, being dragged by her grandmother and mother as if she were a sheep to the slaughter. Despite the sadness etched on their faces, they were determined to proceed with the ceremony. They arrived at a small hut where “the cutter,” a stern-faced woman, was waiting with a sharp blade. Sewabatu, weary and frightened, felt “the cutter” grasp her clitoris and slice it like meat. The pain was excruciating, leaving her screaming and sobbing. She bled profusely and eventually passed out. When she regained consciousness, she realized something precious had been taken from her. Though she physically recovered, the internal scars remained—a constant reminder of her violated human rights. Waris Dirie’s memoir Desert Flower (1998) recounts her own journey from being an FGM victim to becoming a model and activist. By sharing her story, she aimed to raise awareness and encourage young girls who have suffered similar fates to fight for a better future. Writers bring attention to social issues, shedding light on injustices and sparking conversations that might otherwise remain dormant. They illustrate the outcomes of harmful practices and their health implications. Through storytelling, writers foster empathy and understanding, painting vivid mental pictures of the brutality faced by victims like Sewabatu. This narrative serves as a wake-up call, arousing emotions and detailing the negative impacts of such practices. Writers aim to present evidence and challenge negative social norms. In Sewabatu’s case, her family believed the tradition would ensure her purity and marriageability, unaware that they were jeopardizing her life. Writers can dissuade such primitive ideas and conventions, encouraging readers to question their assumptions. They present data, statistics, and expert opinions, making their arguments credible. Over 230 million girls and women have undergone FGM in 30 countries across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, with ages ranging from infancy to 15 (WHO). Amina wished she could do something to help her friend. If she became a writer, she could help others like Sewabatu. Writers create platforms for marginalized voices, providing a space for their stories and experiences to inspire change. Due to stigmatization, ethnicity, and religious factors, many victims cannot share their experiences. Writers amplify these voices, motivating those who have been victimized to become better versions of themselves. Writers also provide policy recommendations, calling for laws to prohibit FGM and hold perpetrators accountable. A comprehensive national plan is necessary to prevent FGM, support survivors, and promote community engagement. Ignorance plays a significant role in perpetuating this practice; therefore, education and community involvement are essential. All of this is possible if writers lift their pens. In summary, writers have long been powerful catalysts for social change, using their words to inspire, educate, and mobilize action. By leveraging their platforms, collaborating with activists, and raising awareness, writers can play a vital role in shaping a more just and equitable society. They make reading accessible and engaging, using techniques, clear language, and organizational tools to help readers assess credibility. Thanks to writers, societal reforms have become possible and expedited, with social media further amplifying their efforts. Author bausper View all posts