Hard Work, Hard Times

This collection of essays explores everyday life in Africa, illustrating how people navigate challenges. Hard Work, Hard Times reveals resilience and creativity amidst adversity.

The portrayal of Africa as a continent in constant crisis is prevalent in popular media and development discussions. However, this perspective can obscure the realities of everyday life for its people. Hard Work, Hard Times challenges this narrative by presenting a collection of essays that delve into the daily practices of individuals living in challenging circumstances not of their own creation.

Through the lens of leading ethnographers, the book explores various aspects of life across the continent. From the vibrant hiplife music scene in Ghana to the complexities of the U.S. 'diversity lottery' in Togo, and the political dynamics in Cote d'Ivoire to the experiences of squatters in South Africa, the contributors reveal how African individuals navigate and reshape their environments. These essays highlight the resilience and creativity of people as they adapt to their situations, often finding ways to thrive despite adversity.

Hard Work, Hard Times ultimately uncovers the imaginative strategies employed by African subjects to make sense of their lives. By moving beyond the rhetoric of crisis, the collection invites readers to appreciate the nuanced realities of existence in Africa, showcasing the strength and resourcefulness inherent in its diverse communities.