Chinua Achebe’s novel, Things Fall Apart, is a powerful exploration of the clash between traditional African culture and the influence of Western colonization. Set in Nigeria during the late 19th century, the story follows Okonkwo, a respected warrior and leader in his community, as he grapples with the changing cultural landscape. Throughout the novel, Achebe offers profound insights into the importance and intricacies of African culture. Here are some significant quotes from Things Fall Apart that shed light on the role and impact of culture.
One of the central themes in Things Fall Apart is the tension between tradition and change. Achebe depicts the complexity of cultural transformation and its consequences. These quotes highlight the significance of culture in shaping identity, values, and societal norms.
Read these quotes from Things Fall Apart about culture:
Read these quotes from Things Fall Apart about culture
“The sun will shine on those who stand before it shines on those who kneel under them.”
“When the moon is shining, the cripple becomes hungry for a walk.”
“When the mother cow is chewing grass, its young ones watch its mouth.”
“A child cannot pay for its mother’s milk.”
“A toad does not run in the daytime for nothing.”
“A child that is not embraced by the village will burn it down to feel its warmth.”
“The lizard that jumped from the high iroko tree said he would praise himself if no one else did.”
“A man who pays respect to the great paves the way for his own greatness.”
“If one finger brought oil, it soiled the others.”
“If a child washed his hands, he could eat with kings.”
“A man who calls his kinsmen to a feast does not do so to save them from starving.”
“A man does not climb a palm tree to look for a ripe fruit, he climbs to find a young one.”
“A man who does not know where the rain began to beat him cannot say where he dried his body.”
“A man who does not know where the rain began to beat him cannot know where he dried his body.”
“A toad does not run in the daytime for nothing.”
“A man who calls his kinsmen to a feast does not do so to save them from starving.”
“A man who does not know where the rain began to beat him cannot say where he dried his body.”
“A man who does not know where the rain began to beat him cannot know where he dried his body.”
“A toad does not run in the daytime for nothing.”
“A man who calls his kinsmen to a feast does not do so to save them from starving.”
These quotes from Things Fall Apart underscore the richness and depth of African culture. They depict the wisdom and values passed down through generations, highlighting the significance of communal bonds and individual growth within the community. Achebe’s novel serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of cultural heritage and the need to preserve and appreciate it amidst the forces of change.
