Hubert Kolani is a trained lawyer and a young author from Togo. He wrote the French-language novel Le Sang du Pouvoir to look at political power in a fictional story. The book follows a strong woman nicknamed "The Iron Lady" and other people caught in political fights.
The novel shows dark politics, spiritual ties and painful choices, but also women's resilience and love. Kolani says fiction gives him freedom that journalism or essays do not. He wants readers to think, discuss and imagine a more humane political life.
Difficult words
- novel — a long written story with characters
- fiction — made up stories not factual reporting
- resilience — ability to recover from problems
- spiritual — connected with religion or inner life
- journalism — work of reporting news and stories
- essay — a short piece of writing about a topicessays
- nickname — to give someone a shorter or special namenicknamed
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you prefer reading fiction or journalism? Why?
- How can a novel help readers imagine a more humane political life?
- Would you read a book about political fights? Why or why not?
Related articles
Tomorrow Club: young writers share voices from Asia
PEN International’s Tomorrow Club connects young writers with mentors and publishes personal and political stories. The latest Asia edition brought together many young contributors and highlighted censorship, exile and calls for more support and mentorship.
China’s growing role and the backlash in Kyrgyzstan
China is now Kyrgyzstan’s main creditor, largest investor and biggest trading partner, and ties were upgraded in 2023. Growing Chinese influence has caused protests, violence and environmental complaints, and China has responded with security aid and training projects.
Farzana Sithi and the struggle for women’s rights after the 2024 uprising
Farzana Sithi, a student activist from Jessore, became prominent during the July–August 2024 youth uprising. She says little progress followed, reports rising violence and discrimination since August 5, 2024, and criticises the interim government.