User:Eternalauras/Afrofuturism

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Afrofuturism, a term coined by Mark Dery in 1994, is a form of literature and media which calls on African diasporic histories as well as possible futures as well providing a form of Speculative Fiction.

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Afrofuturism has a substantial role in music as well, and before Janelle Monae there were artists like Parliament and Sun Ra who would explore themes of Afrofuturism in various ways before the term was even coined in 1994. Ashley Clark, author of “Inside Afrofuturism: A Sonic Comparison” expands on the early musical pioneers such as George Clinton of Afrofuturism stating, “...he wanted to go where we “had not yet perceived black people to be” – ie outer space. His music envisions a space-age era in which black characters are the primary protagonists and cultural arbiters of the future”. Monae also reimagines the possibility of black culture and identity.

Janelle Monae uses technology to shed light on current social and political issues which is a key factor of Afrofuturism. This is evident in The Memory Librarian: and Other Stories by Dirty Computer. The first example of technology being used as a warning of what is to come if we do not proceed with caution and change our current socio-political climate, as well as a symbol for future and current ways of oppression. In this story, technology is used to wipe memories. Hence, its victims are reborn without knowing their past selves, only what they have been conditioned to believe according to the “Standards.” Those who are in minority groups, such as BIPOC and the LGBTQ+, are seen as “Dirty” and must be wiped clean. Monae expands on this on page fourteen when Seshet goes out with Alethia, “With New Dawn, any gender nonconformity is enough to get you a deviant code appended to your number-dirty computer, recommended for urgent cleaning- and she doesn’t want to flag anyone tonight”. The “urgent cleaning” that Seshet contemplates is wiping out one’s memory. This is shown visually in her short film “Dirty Computer.” Monae highlights how oppressors can easily use technology to control the oppressed.

The other two examples of how Monae uses technology to showcase the relationship between humans is how AI is utilized in a more technologically advanced way as well as Seshet, the Director Memory Librarian, amongst others in an authoritative position able to access people's dreams and memories as a way to ensure they follow the “Standards” and are not classified as a “Dirty Computer.”

Janelle Monae's artistic vision extends beyond mere entertainment, serving as a reflection of present realities and a cautionary tale for the future. By embracing Afrofuturist themes and leveraging technology as a narrative device, Monae invites audiences to confront uncomfortable truths and contemplate the potential consequences of unchecked power and systemic injustice. Through her music and storytelling, Monae continues to use artistic expression to challenge societal norms for a more equitable and inclusive future.

Outline
My plan for my input for this article is to expand more on Janelle Monae's work in Afrofuturism, primarily expanding on her projects "The Memory Librarian" and "Dirty Computer". One of my group members found a review article that emphasizes the theme of surveillance in the Memory Librarian which will be useful to add as well. I also plan to expand on the usage of technology and how that oppresses character in the story; this will go hand in hand with the elaboration on sonic qualities that my group will be addressing. I added the source by Ashley Clark because it provides valuable insight on the sonic qualities of Afrofuturism.