Things Fall Apart: Top Ten Plot Quotes (plus analysis...)
Things Fall Apart: Top Ten Plot Quotes (plus analysis…)
Top Ten Plot Quotes from “Things Fall Apart” and Their Analysis
Quote 1: “The world has no end, and what is good among one people is an abomination with others.”
- Achebe uses this quote to build on cultural relativity. It drives home a theme recurring throughout the book: differences in cultures and societal norms.
Quote 2: “A man who pays respect to the great paves the way for his own greatness.”
- Respect for elders and ancestors is a key cultural value in Igbo society. This quote underscores that wisdom and greatness come after exhibiting respect.
Quote 3: “A child’s fingers are not scalded by a piece of hot yam which its mother puts into its palm.”
- This proverb communicates the protection and guidance that comes with family kinship in Igbo culture. It represents trust, care, and necessary vigilance.
Quote 4: “A man who does not know where the rain began to beat him cannot say where he dried his body.”
- This quote emphasises the importance of history and understanding one’s roots. It sheds light on how the past shapes the present, a critical theme in the book.
Quote 5: “Age was respected among his people, but achievement was revered.”
- This quote underlines the value Igbo society places on achievement as a way to earn respect. It reinforces the community’s respect for accomplishment over birthright.
Quote 6: “If I fall down for you and you fall down for me, it is play.”
- This quote reinforces the theme of mutual respect and reciprocity in Igbo society. It suggests that relationships should be built on mutual give-and-take.
Quote 7: “Eneke the bird says that since men have learned to shoot without missing, he has learned to fly without perching.”
- The metaphor of Eneke the bird being constantly on the move due to threats of hunters alludes to the Igbo tribes’ need to adapt to colonial influences.
Quote 8: “A toad does not run in the daytime for nothing.”
- This proverb suggests that if something unusual is happening, there must be a reason for it. This reflects the theme of change and warning signs throughout the novel.
Quote 9: “A proud heart can survive a general failure because such a failure does not prick its pride.”
- This quote epitomises Okonkwo’s personal struggle. Despite his societal failures, he is held together by his self-pride and determination.
Quote 10: “When the moon is shining the cripple becomes hungry for a walk.”
- The quote suggests that favourable circumstances can make us wish for things we usually can’t do. It touches on the theme of ambition and aspirations.