Things Fall Apart: Key Quotes Chapters 13-15

Introduction to Chapters 13-15 Key Quotes

This section focuses on some noteworthy quotes in chapters 13-15 of Chinua Achebe’s ‘Things Fall Apart’, providing insights about the various aspects including culture, tradition, religion, and societal order in Umuofia.

Key Quotes and Their Interpretations

Chapter 13

“The drums and the dancing began again and reached fever-heat. Death, who had been forgotten, returned suddenly to the minds of the feasting people.” This quote highlights that in the Igbo culture, mourning and celebration often go hand in hand. The symbolism of drums and dancing associated with both life (festivity) and death (mourning) depicts the cyclical nature of existence in Umuofia.

Chapter 14

“A man who does not know where the rain began to beat him cannot say where he dried his body.” The rain in this quote symbolises troubles or problems. The quote implies that understanding one’s challenges from the beginning is crucial in overcoming them and gaining closure.

Chapter 15

“A toad does not run in the daytime for nothing.” This proverb suggests that actions are driven by reasons or motivations. In essence, abnormal happenings (a toad running in the day) suggest a disruption in societal fabric or warning of an impending crisis.

Chapter-wise Essence Extracted Through Quotes

These quotes summarise the essence of chapters 13-15, presenting a microcosm of the Igbo society, characterised by its distinct culture, keen observation of the surroundings, wisdom encapsulated in proverbs, and a deep understanding of human nature.

Examining Language Use

These quotes represent Achebe’s use of symbolism, foreshadowing and proverbs to shed light on the features of the Igbo society and to express the philosophy of life as perceived by its people.

Crucial Themes Unveiled

These quotes subtly touch upon the themes of life and death, societal norms, and the journey of self-discovery prevalent in Umuofia society. Through these themes, Achebe imparts implications about the cultural and social orientations of Umuofia people.