Things Fall Apart: Theme & Key Quotes: Free Will

Theme: Free Will

In “Things Fall Apart”, free will is a complex theme, often challenged by the cultural norms, societal expectations and external forces such as colonialism.

Key Quotes

Quote 1: “Whatever the town decides at its meeting is what happens. The clan does not act like one; he has a will of his own which he follows.”

This quote emphasises the collective decisions made in the Igbo society and further signifies how free will is restricted by group consensus.
It reflects the conflict that can arise when one’s personal choice contradicts the societal norms, seen often in Okonkwo’s struggle to create a dominant image of himself.

Quote 2: “A child cannot pay for its mother’s milk.”

The quote uses traditional proverbs to highlight the societal constraints that can affect one’s exercise of free will.
In the Igbo society, provoking debt or being unable to pay it is a warning against breaking societal codes and norms, which further limits individual autonomy.

Quote 3: “If the Oracle said that my son should be a farmer, would I go against it?”

The quote signifies the immense influence of spiritual beliefs in the Igbo society, which often dictate an individual’s choices and hence limit free will.
It also points at the rigidity of Igbo traditions and the lack of flexibility when it comes to defying religious oracles.

Quote 4: “You, who are called Umuofia, can you say you have been kidnapped by a white man who does not even speak our tongue?”

The dialogue shows the intrusion of colonial forces into the Igbo culture and the implicit coercion that restricts the free will of the people.
It signifies the power dynamics in colonialism and highlights how such dominance severely limits the free will of the colonised population.

Quote 5: “Okonkwo felt a cold shiver run through him at the terrible prospect, like the prospect of annihilation.”

The narration portrays Okonkwo’s inner turmoil as he contemplates going against the decrees set by his own society. This signifies the persistence of free will even amidst stringent societal norms.
Free will in this context is existentialist, as it is associated with annihilation. It shows the destructive power of personal freedom when it comes at the cost of laws and customs.

Overall, it’s important to note how “Things Fall Apart” portrays the complex interplay of societal norms, spiritual beliefs, and colonial forces in restricting or allowing free will in different characters.