Tag things fall apart
A classic!
"Things Fall Apart" is a novel by Chinua Achebe, published in 1958. The book is set in the late 19th century in Igbo society in Nigeria and tells the story of Okonkwo, a strong and proud warrior who struggles to maintain his cultural identity and family in the face of colonialism and cultural change.
The title "Things Fall Apart" is a reference to the Igbo proverb "When a man falls, he falls alone," which is echoed in the novel's themes of individual and collective identity, cultural dislocation, and the struggle to maintain traditional ways of life in the face of modernity.
The novel is considered a classic of African literature and has been widely acclaimed for its powerful and poignant portrayal of the human experience. It has also been translated into many languages and has sold millions of copies worldwide.
Some of the key themes and motifs in "Things Fall Apart" include:
- Cultural identity: The novel explores the tension between traditional Igbo culture and the influence of European colonialism.
- Individual identity: Okonkwo's struggles with his own identity and sense of self are a central theme of the novel.
- Family and community: The novel highlights the importance of family and community in Igbo society and the ways in which these bonds are tested by the challenges of colonialism.
- Colonialism and imperialism: The novel critiques the destructive impact of colonialism on indigenous cultures and societies.
- Tradition and modernity: The novel explores the tension between traditional ways of life and the influence of modernity, particularly in the context of colonialism.
Overall, "Things Fall Apart" is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that continues to be widely read and studied today.