Things Fall Apart
Things Fall Apart tells the story of Okonkwo, a warrior and renowned wrestler in the clan of Umoufia, located in what is present-day Nigeria. The novel is divided into three parts and follows the everyday happenings in Okonkwo's large family. Though slow to start, Things Fall Apart eventually builds to cover events that are enormous in scope, including the start of the colonization process.
As new religion and government encroach on Umoufia's land and culture, Okonwko struggles to find the best path of resistance.
Quote:
"He sighed heavily, and as if in sympathy the smoldering log also sighed. And immediately Okonkwo's eyes were opened and he saw the whole matter clearly. Living fire begets cold, impotent ash. He sighed again, deeply."
Author:
Chinua Achebe is a novelist, poet, and professor. Some of his most well-known works include Things Fall Apart, Arrow of God, and Anthills of The Savannah. He has also written books for children, including Chike and the River. Achebe was born in the Igbo town of Ogidi in Nigeria and taught at Brown University from 2009 until his death in 2013.
Published: 1958
Length: 209 pages
Set in: Nigeria