A Ghanaian writer, Boakye D. Alpha has chalked a historic feat for the Ghanaian literature community as two of his works were featured at the Norfolk Black History Month launched in the United Kingdom.
The showcased works included the “House of the Rising Sun” – a poem exploring generational grief and the weight of inherited trauma – and “Manta”, an excerpt from his forthcoming novel title edited for publication.
The poetic tales reflect Alpha’s signature style which is deeply rooted in Ghanaian culture yet speaks to universal themes of survival and resistance.
In these pieces, Alpha weaves cultural references and indigenous Ghanaian language, drawing from oral traditions and storytelling patterns familiar to Ghanaian readers while making them accessible to an international audience.
His ingenious work places the Ghanaian heritage on the global literary map, offering readers a fresh perspective on Black history and identity.
Speaking about the showcase, Alpha explained that while the poem gives voice to ancestral pain, generational trauma and defiance, the prose grounds these emotions in a historical and personal narrative of a mother and daughter.
“Together, the pieces honour Black roots and reimagine possibilities for resistance and resurgence,” he noted.
Norfolk Black History Month is a volunteer-led programme in Norfolk, UK, which celebrates Black culture, history, and contributions through arts, theatre, music, dance, workshops, exhibitions, and educational events.
Rooted in values of representation, inclusion, and resistance to marginalisation, it highlights Black narratives as an integral part of local, national, and global history.
Alpha’s inclusion in this year’s showcase positioned him among a diverse and talented group who are harnessing art and storytelling to spark dialogue on identity, heritage and social justice.
As a graduate of the Master’s in Creative Writing programme at the University of East Anglia, Alpha continues to gain recognition for his ability to blend Ghanaian cultural identity with bold, contemporary storytelling.
The Norfolk Black History Month celebrations will continue throughout October, featuring more exhibitions, performances, and community events honouring the richness of Black history and culture.