Things Fall Apart: Key Quotes Chapters 1-3

Key Quotes from Chapters 1-3

“Okonkwo was well known throughout the nine villages and even beyond.”
- This quote exhibits Okonkwo’s reputation and the importance placed on this in the Igbo society. His fame is attributed to his personal achievements and hard work rather than any inherited position.
“He had a slight stammer and whenever he was angry and could not get his words out quickly enough, he would use his fists.”
- Here, Okonkwo’s impatience and conflict-prone character is depicted. The stammer, seen as a weakness, is juxtaposed with the use of his fists, symbolising strength and aggression.

“That was many years ago, twenty or more, and during this time Okonkwo’s fame had grown like a bush-fire in the harmattan.”
- This metaphor depicts the rapid expansion of Okonkwo’s reputation within the society. However, it can also hint towards its destructive potential.
“Okonkwo ruled his household with a heavy hand. His wives, especially the youngest, lived in perpetual fear of his fiery temper…”
- This quote showcases Okonkwo’s authoritative control over his household and the gender dynamics within it. The use of the word ‘ruled’ underlines his dominance.

“Unoka was never happy when it came to wars. He was in fact a coward and could not bear the sight of blood.”
- This quote depicts Unoka as the complete opposite of Okonkwo, showing the drastic contrast in their character traits: Unoka’s pacifism Vs Okonkwo’s aggression.
“Why should a man suffer so much just because he has a big heart and made a mistake?”
- Unoka’s philosophical inquiry delves into the themes of kindness, understanding and the harsh repercussions of human error within stringent societal norms. It contrasts against Okonkwo’s fixed, strict beliefs about success and failure.