On the surface, Ngugi wa Thiong'o's Detained appears as a fierce political statement, a piece of propaganda advocating for a revolutionary change in Kenya. Yet, beneath its virulent critique of capitalism and colonialism lies a deeply personal narrative, where Ngugi embarks on a journey of self-discovery. It is this duality that makes the memoir a profound exploration of both political and personal liberation.

Ngugi's Personal Journey

Despite its overt political themes, Detained is an introspective work where Ngugi grapples with his identity and role as a novelist. For Ngugi, understanding oneself is crucial for good writing and is inextricably linked to the broader societal role literature plays. His love for literature is evident as he recounts how both he and his fellow detainees turned to writing during their imprisonment. Among them, Wasonga Sijeyo's invocation of literature as mental sustenance underscores its vital role in their survival. Ngugi frequently references the works of authors such as Isaiah, William Blake, Maxim Gorky, and Wole Soyinka, highlighting how literature—not just political ideology—guides his thoughts and actions.

Literature as a Tool for Liberation

Ngugi’s memoir is imbued with a concern for individual and collective freedom, emphasizing the right of people to express themselves through their cultural heritage. The completion of his prison novel symbolizes his survival and his right to free expression. Writing Detained allowed Ngugi to shape his experiences into an artistic form, blending metaphor with reality. This fusion reflects his belief that human will can impact history, though he acknowledges the unpredictable nature of life. A contingency plan to translate his novel into Kiswahili and English if not released shows his pragmatic approach. Despite his romantic ideals, Ngugi remained grounded in material realities but still clung to premonitions of hope and resilience on the night he needed to finish his work.

The Creative Process and Language

In his methodical approach to survival, Ngugi crafted his novel as an "insurrection of a detained intellect" written on toilet paper. He sought to demonstrate the richness of the Gikuyu language, countering its historical suppression under British imperialism. By writing in Gikuyu, Ngugi aimed to resurrect it as a political force, showcasing its ability to express modern concepts across various domains. This choice of language serves as a liberation from colonial constraints, reinforcing the vital connection between creation and freedom.

Content as the Core of Literature

For Ngugi, the essence of any work lies in its content, not its language or technique. The struggles of the Kenyan people against neo-colonialism form the core of both Detained and his novel Devil on the Cross. While different in form, both works address similar themes of oppression and resistance. Real-life situations inspired the themes and incidents in the novel, reflecting Ngugi's effort to make literature a shared, collective experience. This approach unites him with the people, underscoring the power of a creative community.

Freedom, Creativity, and Solidarity

Ngugi’s motifs of freedom and creativity culminate in his concluding “Prison Notes.” The completion of his novel rejuvenates his sense of identity; he is no longer just a prisoner number but a free individual. These final lines capture a collective spirit of liberation as he envisions his family and compatriots in Kenya sharing in this newfound freedom. Ironically, his time in prison became a continuation of his most fulfilling phase, as he reconnected with his native language and overcame formidable challenges to his faith.