Imitation and Analysis
Analysis of Things Fall Apart
Throughout the narrative, Chinua Achebe adopted simple sentence structures and straightforward diction. The narrative has employed a formal style with a third-person point of view. The use of a direct language introduces the aspect of neutral reportage that enables the reader to flow with the narrative easily. He states, “Okonkwo was well known throughout the nine villages and even beyond. His fame rested on solid personal achievements. As a young man of eighteen he had brought honor to his village by throwing Amalinze the Cat” (1) Additionally, the adoption of simple verbs accentuates the aspect of historical realism that encourages the author to become part of the Igbo culture. For instance, the use of terms such as ogbanje showcases the writer’s cultural practices and beliefs and the need to express the terms in the original culture since they are not easy to translate. “Amalinze was the great wrestler who for seven years was unbeaten, from Umuofia to Mbaino” (1). The terms Amalinze and Umuofia also indicate the cultural significance of the Igbo people and the struggle to maintain the culture amid the influence of the white people.
Another technique employed is the use of a third-person perspective where the narrator has assumed an omniscient aspect in that he is able to communicate the feelings and thoughts of all involved characters. For instance, the narrator explains Okwonko’s misfortunes in a manner that causes the reader to understand their thoughts and emotions. Additionally, the author avoids judging the characters from their actions by portraying them from a negative perspective. For instance, although Okonkwo rejected his father for being feminine, the narrator is keen to present Unoka’s story from a neutral perspective saying that, “Unoka was never happy when it came to wars” he changed the topic shortly talking about music saying, “and his face beamed.” In the use of this technique, the author has adopted an ethnographic perspective whereby he includes aspects of Igbo culture.
References
Chinua, Achebe. “Things fall apart.” (1958).