EKWE Volume 18 Number 4 2025

TRANSLATING THE LINGUISTIC INNOVATION OF FRENCH IN LE TUMULTE D'ITIA-AFE-EKPE OF INEGBE

Ndifon Mamina Mba, PhD Edeghe-Udim, Stella Ndip Frida Egbe
Abstract

This study translates the linguistic innovation of French in Le Tumulted'Itia-Afe-Ekpe and how the narrative relates language, culture, and identity. Inegbe's novel, Le Tumulted'Itia-Afe-Ekpe, constitutes a rich terrain for analyzing linguistic innovation due to its unique language and immersive narrative style. This novel explores the challenges posed by spiritual warfare against an evil goddess, exile, and suffering, while integrating innovative linguistic elements. This study adopts stylistic and sociolinguistic approaches as tools of analysis that consider language productions as conditioned by specific social parameters. This study places particular emphasis on linguistic choices, stylistic figures, and narrative tones. The study highlights how Inegbe uses language hybridization, blending French with Anaang (African) idioms and proverbs, to create a linguistic space that reflects the complex identity of his characters. This innovation is also evident in dialogue construction, mirroring the sociocultural reality of contemporary Africa. Using an intertextual approach and playing on linguistic codes, the author offers an authentic and engaging voice that resonates with the dilemmas and hopes of evolving African societies. 

Keywords:
Copyright © 2026 ACJOL.