I like the idea of readers feeling a familiarity, whether its with Africa or childhood.

There is no country in the world with the diversity, confidence and talent and black pride like Nigeria.

Every human being has a bit of gangster in him.

All people have dignity. Theres nobody who was born without a soul and a spirit.

Everywhere I go, I see young people: Confident, forward looking. I have seen them in Lagos, in Rwanda, in the suburbs of London.

I’m extremely optimistic about rapid transformation and change of things in Africa in general.

I believe in, and will to the best of my ability fight for, equal rights and freedom of opinion for everyone, regardless of colour, religion, nationality, orientation - you know the rest.

Africa is to be pitied, worshipped or dominated

People reach an age... where somebody elses platform is no longer yours.

I love playing with words and texture.

I, Binyavanga Wainaina, quite honestly swear I have known I am a homosexual since I was five.

As far as I can tell, there are two basic (kissing) rules: 1. Don't bite anything without permission. 2. The human tongue is like wasabi: it's very powerful, and should be used sparingly.

A winner smiles and a looser cries. The God looks at them and says, 'Sorry, guys!

There is always some kid who may be seeing me for the first time. I owe him my best.

Well, considering my entire life, now seems rules by odd coincidences, I figure it's right on track.

You will become tired, Siddhartha." "I will become tired." "You will fall asleep, Siddhartha." "I will not fall asleep." "You will die, Siddhartha." "I will die.

Processes don't do work, people do

Power of mind is infinite while brawn is limited.

Right now is the time for you to visualize and create your future. Make it as healthy and bright and joyful as you can. It's your life, and you're going to live it.

I wanted to jeopardize my own image. With my image I had already produced art pieces such as videos of photographs.