Figurative Language In Things Fall Apart By Chinua Achebe

Chinua Achebe is highly successful in developing a new and distinct form of African English. The text, written in English, incorporates figurative language such as proverbs, folktales, similes, and metaphors from African culture. Despite this, some writers argue that since the novel is not written in Achebe's native tongue, it should not be considered an African novel. In "Decolonizing the Mind," Thiong'o argues that language is not only a means of communication but also a reflection of culture. Therefore, by writing in English, Achebe is losing a part of his culture and background. However, many agree with Achebe, as his African English helps American cultures understand the views and way of life of Africans. Achebe includes proverbs and folktales in Things Fall Apart that relate to African culture.

For example, Okonkwo is referred to as “Roaring Flame” due to his quick temper and violent nature, likening him to a destructive fire. During the historical matches, the crowd is compared to thunder, as they cheer loudly like the sound of thunder during a storm. Additionally, authors often personify folktales in their novels. On page 53, Achebe writes, “At last, Vulture was sent to plead with Sky, and to soften his heart with a song of the suffering of the sons of me.” Here, Achebe personifies Vulture and Sky, giving them human characteristics to provide details of African culture during a drought. The folktale explains how Sky is withholding rain from Earth, and during droughts, African cultures eagerly anticipate the rainy season as their crops depend on it for survival. In summation, Achebe develops a new language that combines African and European culture. By providing African terms to replace European ones, he gives a sense of his culture. Achebe also tells stories that impart knowledge of African values to European readers. Thiong'o must understand that although people were originally punished for speaking their mother tongue, things are changing.