No Longer at Ease by Chinua Achebe (Penguin Classics)

“No Longer at Ease” is a novel written by the Nigerian author Chinua Achebe. It was first published in 1960 and is the second novel in Achebe’s African Trilogy, following “Things Fall Apart” and preceding “Arrow of God.” Like his other works, “No Longer at Ease” explores themes of colonialism, cultural clash, and the challenges faced by postcolonial African societies.

The novel’s central character is Obi Okonkwo, who has been educated in England and returns to Nigeria to work as a civil servant. Obi is caught between the traditional Igbo culture of his family and the modern, Westernized world he encounters in his job. As he navigates his career and personal life, he grapples with issues such as corruption, moral dilemmas, and the clash between his heritage and the pressures of a changing society.

Key themes in “No Longer at Ease” include:

1. Cultural Conflict: Obi’s return to Nigeria highlights the tension between traditional Igbo values and the Westernized, urban lifestyle he adopts. This cultural conflict is a central theme throughout the novel.

2. Corruption: The novel portrays the pervasive corruption within the Nigerian civil service and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals like Obi, who must decide whether to uphold their principles or succumb to the corrupt practices of their colleagues.

3. Postcolonial Identity: Achebe explores the challenges of identity and belonging in a postcolonial society where African traditions and Western influences collide.

4. Generation Gap: The novel also delves into the generation gap between Obi and his parents, who hold strong traditional beliefs. This gap reflects broader societal changes occurring in Nigeria during the postcolonial era.

“No Longer at Ease” is a significant work in African literature as it provides a nuanced perspective on the complexities of postcolonial African society and the personal struggles of individuals caught in the midst of cultural and political change. It offers readers a glimpse into the challenges and moral dilemmas faced by those who attempt to navigate the shifting landscapes of identity and tradition in the wake of colonialism.