Use of Nigerian English in Literary Texts: A Study of Imasuen’s Fine Boys and Agary’s Yellow Yellow

Abstract

This study is carried out to examine the use of the nativised variety in two literary texts authored by Nigerians. Some language users are reluctant to accept nativised English. They believe that it is a debased form of English exclusive to illiterates and members of the lower class. Some writers are reluctant to use this variety in their literary works. These writers do not use the nativised variety in their literary works lest they be categorised as persons who lack a mastery of the English language. There is also the fear of not gaining wide readership. This group of writers believes that English being a global language will fetch wide readership for their literary works. The study derives its theoretical framework from Coupland and Giles’ Communication accommodation theory. Data for the study comprised excerpts from the literary texts being studied. These excerpts were purposively selected, and textual analysis was employed to evaluate the data and answer the research questions. Findings indicate that the authors used nativised English to project their African experiences. It was also subtly employed to promote the indigenous languages, thereby curbing the hegemonic relationship between English and the indigenous languages. It helps them situate the literary texts in their correct socio-cultural/sociolinguistic setting, thereby giving the reader an insight into the African society. The authors also employed nativised English to critique society. The study concludes that the use of nativised English in literary works helps writers project their African experiences and culture while getting wide readership for their literary works. It is pertinent that a literary work should be situated in its right socio-cultural and sociolinguistic contexts and nativised English aids this process.