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Situational Irony
Style
Explanation and Analysis:
Achebe utilizes a number of distinct stylistic techniques in Things Fall Apart to achieve his intended postcolonial commentary. Chief among these techniques is the frequent use of figurative language: idiom, in particular. Achebe's characters often communicate their feelings using allegory, myth, or idiom, as opposed to stating things directly. This stylistic choice is intended to accurately reflect the speech patterns and cultural customs of Ibo-speaking people in Nigeria. Achebe's sentences are short and uncomplicated, despite frequent use of simile and metaphor. These stylistic elements combine to produce a story reminiscent of older folk tales.
In addition to language, Achebe utilizes chapter structure as an important aspect of his storytelling. Things Fall Apart is divided into 25 chapters, which are grouped into three sections. In the first section of the novel, Achebe introduces readers to daily life in the Umuofia clan, including several important events that unfold in Okonkwo's life. The reader must be introduced to things as they are in order to understand how grievously they "fall apart." In section two, Okonkwo's personal life falls apart. In section three, his community falls apart. Achebe's stylistic choice to lend structure to things "falling apart" is an apt one, emphasizing thematic questions about fate and free will.
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