Nigerian author, Dimeji Sodeke has officially launched his thought-provoking new novel, Heavens of Immortals, revealing the deep spiritual themes that underpin this ambitious literary work. In a recent press conference, Sodeke elaborated on the inspirations and motivations behind his novel, which weaves together elements of science fiction, theology, and mysticism to address profound questions about life and existence.
Sodeke explained that his lifelong curiosity about unseen spiritual forces significantly influenced the creation of Heavens of Immortals. “I wanted to explore the things that control the physical world but remain hidden from the naked eye,” he shared, expressing his passion for the spiritual realms that connect known and unknown aspects of reality. Through his narrative, Sodeke aims to unravel mysteries that have persisted throughout human history, challenging conventional understandings of life and faith.
Reflecting on his heritage, Sodeke credited his strong ancestral tradition of storytelling for nurturing his creative spirit. “I come from a lineage that loves storytelling,” he noted, emphasizing how this cultural background has shaped his writing style. He acknowledged that while his novel might diverge from contemporary Nigerian storytelling, it remains deeply rooted in the cultural and spiritual essence of Nigeria. His ability to blend this heritage with modern themes has garnered praise from scholars and authors alike, who commend the book for its depth and originality.
Despite the positive reception, Sodeke acknowledged facing criticism from some intellectuals. “Some have criticized my book, and that’s okay,” he said calmly. “But it doesn’t change the fact that it shines a light on truths that are not widely known. Sometimes, the truth can be uncomfortable.” He underscored his commitment to exploring complex subjects, including the intersections between ancient traditions and modern faith, and remains steadfast in delivering an important message through his work.
The novel also delves into broader themes that connect historical and spiritual elements. Heavens of Immortals examines how ancient traditions relate to the modern world, particularly how traditional beliefs foreshadowed significant events, including the arrival of Jesus Christ. “There were things happening during the time of indigenous religious practices that indicated the future we are now living in,” Sodeke explained, highlighting the relevance of these themes in contemporary society.
In a striking revelation, Sodeke discussed his decision to explore African traditional belief systems, particularly Ifá, despite his strong Christian upbringing. “I come from a very strong Christian background, but I saw the need to research Ifá and explore its spiritual relevance,” he stated. This journey required him to step outside his comfort zone and challenge established paradigms. “I had to study Ifá for a long time to grasp its intricacies, and this deep dive into African spirituality ultimately provided deeper insights,” he added.
As the press conference concluded, Sodeke expressed his hopes for the impact of Heavens of Immortals on readers. He encouraged attendees to approach the novel with an open mind, promising that those willing to engage with the text would uncover a wealth of knowledge and insights. “I hope people will read the book and truly see what is embedded within it,” he concluded, confident that its multilayered narrative will resonate with readers eager to explore the mysteries of life, spirituality, and existence.