Things Fall Apart: Symbolism

Symbolism Overview

Chinua Achebe makes extensive use of symbolism in “Things Fall Apart”, with specific symbols being used to represent deeper meanings within the narrative.
This effective use of symbolism allows the reader to delve deeper into Ibo culture and understand the inner workings of its society.
Symbols are of profound importance as they connect the real and the unreal, the known and the unknown, and provide readers a deeper understanding of characters, places and incidents.

Fire

Okonkwo is frequently described as fire. The fire symbolises his anger, masculinity, and quick temper.
The fire is also symbolic of destruction, an aspect reflected in Okonkwo’s life as his wrath and lack of control over the temper cause him trouble and ultimately lead to his downfall.

Locusts

Locusts, which are described as descending upon the village, symbolise the soon-to-be happening colonial invasion.
This insect swarm devours everything in its way, just like the colonisers will decimate the traditional way of life in Umuofia.

Darkness and Light

Darkness and light symbolism is pervasively seen in the book.
Darkness often represents fear, the unknown, and evil, while light symbolically stands for knowledge, hope, and good.
This dichotomy is pervasive throughout the narrative highlighting the conflict between various characters, as well as between the traditional and the foreign.

Okonkwo

Okonkwo himself is a complex symbol representing both the strength and the weakness of traditional Ibo values.
He embodies characteristics like bravery, aggression and hard work, which are highly valued in his society. But his inability to value change, his fear of weakness, and his over-reliance on strength result in his downfall.

Unoka

Unoka symbolises a part of Igbo society that values art, music, and peace over aggression, wealth and conquest.
He is also the embodiment of failure and inglorious death in society’s eyes since he dies poor and without a title in the wrestling ring.

Wrestling

Wrestling in the Ibo society symbolises one’s achievement, strength and valor.
Okonkwo’s victory over Amalinze the cat is remembered years after it happened, showcasing his prowess.

Kola Nuts

The offering and accepting of kola nuts, a tradition in the Ibo society, symbolises respect, hospitality, and struggle for compromise and balance in friendships.

Recognising these symbols and their meanings can enrich your understanding of “Things Fall Apart” and the themes Achebe weaves into the narrative.