My Pride

My seven years of exile was over, so my family and I arranged to return to Umuofia. I prepared a huge feast in appreciation of their gratitude during my seven years of exile.

When I returned to Umuofia, everything has changed, I found out that many men have renounced their titles and have converted to Christianity. There was a prison built by the white men, establishment of the government court of law as well as the employment of the natives of Umuofia. Everything has fallen apart. I wonder why the Umuofians have not incited violence to rid the village of the white men’s church and oppressive government.

How dare Enoch betrayed us? Violence arises after Enoch unmasked an egwuwu. Enoch has gone deep into the white men’s belief. He left his beliefs behind; the belief that he had lived with for his life. It was a horrible sin to unmask the egwuwu. When the egwuwu and the others went to burn Enoch’s compound, I volunteered myself as I can’t stand the betrayal. Unfortunately, our act was not approved. We were insulted and abused physically. They wound our pride which left scars that would never fade.

Okika stood up during the meeting and called upon to take action against the white men. I agreed as I swear that I will have my vengeance on them. As Okika’s talked, a group of white men approached us. With hatred and rage, I stood up and drew my machete and slashed them with one blow. People were surrounded and whispering amongst themselves. I could see fear inside them. At that moment, I realized no one supported me. I felt defeated and helpless. I decided to write a letter to Umuofia.

Dear the people in Umuofia,

I have struggled with the changes took place in my tribe. I was initially known as one of the strongest and most honorable tribesman, but as the white men began coming in, everything has torn apart. I, Okonkwo had lost my place as a man in my culture, a place now filled with Church and Christian values. When my tribe was erupted in confusion and turmoil, I realized that my tribe is no longer strong and that disappointment is too much for me to handle. I trembled in fear. I feared to become weak like Unoka, which I always resisted in my whole life. I chose to leave, so that I would not have to suffer the pain seeing my tribe turning into an unacceptable way.