My Living Memories

In My Living Memories, Christopher Adom's autobiography, readers are treated to a candid and introspective account of the author's life journey. 

With courageous frankness and sincerity, Adom recounts his formative years, academic pursuits and subsequent career, offering a unique glimpse into the life of a dedicated engineer and individual.

Evocative storytelling, cultural insights

One of the autobiography's greatest strengths lies in its evocative storytelling, which effortlessly transports readers to a bygone era and a distant land.

Adom's vivid and nuanced descriptions of his Ghanaian childhood, replete with sensory details and cultural insights, are at once engaging, immersive and profoundly nostalgic. 

His recollections of family gatherings, traditional ceremonies and everyday life in Accra and beyond are infused with warmth, humour and a deep affection for his cultural heritage.

For instance, Adom's depiction of traditional Ghanaian festivals, such as the Homowo festival, provides a bright view into the rich cultural practices of the Ga people.

Intellectual, social landscape

As Adom navigates his academic pursuits, his descriptions of university life at the then University of Science and Technology (UST), now Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), offer a fascinating glimpse into Ghana's intellectual and social landscape during the 1960s and 1970s.

His struggles and triumphs are rendered with candour and vulnerability, making his ultimate successes all the more satisfying.

Adom's experiences at KNUST, a hub of intellectual and social activity, provide valuable insights into the country's educational system and the role of universities in shaping Ghana's future leaders.

Commitment, public service, nation-building

Spending almost all his adult and working life at the country’s foremost powerhouse, Adom's professional growth at the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) is equally well-documented, with behind-the-scenes accounts of the challenges and opportunities facing Ghana's energy sector during the latter half of the 20th century.

His commitment to public service and nation-building shines through on every page, inspiring readers with his persistence and perseverance.

Adom's work at ECG highlights the importance of reliable energy infrastructure for national development and the role of individuals in driving progress.

Philanthropy, community development

Adom's commitment to philanthropy and community development is also inspiring; his work in education, health and community development in Osu, Kaneshie, Teshie and other areas, particularly with Irish partners, is proof of his dedication to making a positive impact.

Through his philanthropic efforts, Adom demonstrates the value of giving back to the community and the potential for collaborative efforts to drive meaningful change.

Approach, structure

Structurally, the narrative adopts a linear approach to storytelling, making it easy for readers to follow Adom's journey with enthusiasm.

Every chapter has a purposive phase of his life: childhood, primary and secondary school, university, further studies abroad, which facilitates a smoother, clearer and more enjoyable reading experience.

This approach allows readers to appreciate the author's growth and development over time.

Reflections, narrative

While the manuscript is compelling, certain sections could benefit from refinement to unlock its full potential.

For instance, the author's acknowledgements of his indebtedness and gratitude to certain mentors and persons are repeated excessively, to the point where their impact becomes reduced. 

Also, due to the author's forthright and transparent writing style, some areas of the narrative and certain reflections that could have been tactfully omitted or approached with more subtlety are instead presented with unbridled candour.

Language, flow

The language used is appropriately conversational and informal, resulting in a narrative that is easy to follow and flows smoothly.

However, some chapters could benefit from more cohesive linking and smoother connections between them; for instance, the narrative's resort to frequent flashbacks in periods of Adom's life could have been lessened.

Additionally, some sections feel overly elaborate, while others seem cursorily treated or sketchily rendered.

In conclusion, My Living Memories is a compelling and inspiring memoir that offers a unique perspective on Ghanaian culture, family and personal growth.

Adom's story is a testament to the power of resilience, determination and community involvement, making it a valuable addition to the literary landscape. 

This memoir will definitely resonate with readers interested in Ghanaian culture and literary works, and more importantly, inspire the younger generation to strive for excellence.

This autobiography leaves a lasting legacy and an impactful and enduring ‘taste’ in the mouth of readers and future generations.

The writer is a lecturer at UPSA