1. Magical Realism:
* Interweaving of the Real and the Supernatural: The novel blends everyday life with mythical elements and ancestral spirits. The presence of gods like Ngai and Karinga, the mystical powers of the elders, and the prophetic dreams of Waiyaki create an atmosphere of the uncanny.
* Symbolism and Metaphor: Natural phenomena and objects are infused with symbolic meaning. The river itself represents the divide between tradition and modernity, the drought signifies the spiritual aridity of the community, and the rain symbolizes hope and renewal.
2. Historical Fiction:
* Exploration of the Colonial Era: The novel is set during the early days of British colonization in Kenya, capturing the social and political changes of the time.
* Cultural Conflict: The novel highlights the clash between traditional Kikuyu customs and the imposed values of the British, showcasing the impact of Westernization and Christianity on the community.
3. Social Realism:
* Focus on the Lives of Ordinary People: The novel centers on the experiences of the characters within the context of their society. The reader gains insight into the lives of the young people, the elders, the colonial administrators, and the missionaries.
* Social Commentary: The novel critiques the effects of colonial rule, including the suppression of traditional beliefs, the exploitation of resources, and the erosion of cultural values.
4. Oral Storytelling Techniques:
* Folklore and Proverbs: The novel utilizes traditional Kikuyu folktales, proverbs, and songs to convey wisdom, morality, and cultural values.
* Dialogue and Narrative Structure: The use of vivid dialogue and a multi-vocal narrative perspective gives the novel a sense of oral storytelling, mirroring the way stories were traditionally passed down through generations.
5. Modernist Elements:
* Stream of Consciousness: The novel incorporates instances of stream of consciousness, particularly in the inner thoughts and reflections of characters like Waiyaki.
* Symbolism and Ambiguity: The novel uses symbols and imagery in a layered and often ambiguous way, prompting readers to engage in interpretation and analysis.
6. Political and Social Commentary:
* Critique of Colonialism: The novel directly challenges the assumptions and practices of colonial rule, exposing its exploitative nature and the cultural damage it inflicts.
* Advocate for African Identity: The novel emphasizes the need for African societies to reclaim their traditions and values, to resist cultural homogenization, and to find their own path toward modernity.
In conclusion, "River Between" is a rich and complex novel that draws from multiple literary styles. It combines elements of magical realism, historical fiction, social realism, oral storytelling, and even modernist techniques to create a powerful and evocative exploration of cultural change, colonial oppression, and the search for identity in a rapidly changing world.