Unoka
Okonkwo’s father, Unoka, was a gentle and idle man who was fond of playing music. A foil to Okonkwo, Unoka was not a successful or respected man. He played music well and was able to weave and tell creative folktales. This is in direct contrast to Okonkwo’s rejection of music and insistence on only telling cold and gory war stories. Unoka’s draw to music and storytelling highlight his sensitive and creative nature that Okonkwo so despises.
The beginning of Things Fall Apart shows Unoka interacting with a debtor, who refuses to break a kola nut with him. The refusal to break the kola nut means that the debtor has no respect for Unoka despite his old age, which generally garners respect in Igbo society. Furthermore, Unoka’s tendency to beg for money from the people of the village demonstrates his lack of riches. The clan respects wealth, but as Unoka has none and is in debt, the clan disrespects him. Unoka was never very good at keeping a farm or caring for his children and wives, either; Okonkwo ends up doing this work for him from a young age, which only increases Okonkwo’s resentment toward his careless father.
Although Unoka lacks the respect of his clan, his nature shows that he is happier than Okonkwo, who is dogged by a fear of never being good enough. Unoka shows no fear or worry and lives gently and kindly. If it were not for Unoka’s complete lack of “manliness” within the story, Okonkwo would not be as driven to differentiate himself from his father, who was often called agbala (meaning “woman”) by the clansmen.
Unoka, unlike Okonkwo, had little control over his chi, or his personal god. Because he was unable to shape or control his chi, Unoka was viewed as an “ill-fated man.” Unoka was affected by ill fate not only with his land but also in his death. Unoka died of “the swelling,” which is considered an abomination to the “goddess of the earth.” Due to this, Unoka was taken to the Evil Forest to die alone and without a burial, a shameful death in the village of Umuofia. Additionally, Unoka dies before paying off his debt, another mark of shame.
Although Unoka is only briefly present in Things Fall Apart, his careless and lazy nature affects and drives Okonkwo to act aggressively and to never accept failure. The relationship between Unoka and Okonkwo represents a clash between father, son, and cultural expectations. Unoka does not live up to expectations and brings his family shame even in death. Furthermore, it is Unoka’s miscommunication and negligence that pushes Okonkwo away from him.
Expert Q&A
The role and influence of Unoka in Chinua Achebe's Things Fall Apart, especially in relation to Okonkwo
Unoka, Okonkwo's father in Things Fall Apart, significantly influences Okonkwo's character and actions. Unoka's failure and perceived weakness drive Okonkwo to become his opposite: a successful, respected, and often harsh man. Okonkwo's fear of resembling his father shapes his relentless pursuit of strength and power, impacting his relationships and ultimately contributing to his tragic downfall.
How does Unoka die in Things Fall Apart?
Unoka dies from an illness characterized by swelling in the stomach and limbs, which symbolizes his complacency. He is described as "ill-fated," and because of his condition, he is not allowed to die inside the house. Unoka, who was lazy, improvident, and heavily in debt, spent his life playing music and drinking rather than working. His death profoundly affects his son Okonkwo, who strives to be his opposite, driven by shame and a desire to avoid his father's fate.
What are the implications of Unoka taking his flute to the evil forest when he dies?
Unoka taking his flute to the evil forest upon his death symbolizes his reliance on music as his sole source of joy and self-expression in a society where he is otherwise considered a failure. The flute represents his only talent and connection to others, offering solace and a sense of equality. This act underscores his detachment from societal values and his embrace of music as his ultimate comfort, possibly even in his final moments.
Why does Unoka in Things Fall Apart sing to the kites?
Unoka sings to the kites as part of a childhood tradition marking the return of the dry season. This activity recalls his own happy childhood, contrasting with his adult life of failure. Singing to the kites allows Unoka to escape the competitive and violent adult world of the Igbo tribe, seeking solace in childish pleasures, music, and nature. This act symbolizes his desire to return to a simpler, carefree time in his life.
How do Unoka, Okonkwo, and Nwoye differ with regard to their views on progress?
Unoka, Okonkwo, and Nwoye have distinct views on progress shaped by their cultural and personal experiences. Unoka values storytelling and fellowship over material success, while Okonkwo seeks to advance through traditional means like farming. Nwoye, however, is drawn to new ideas and aligns with the Christians, reflecting a shift towards modernization and cultural change. The novel questions whether adopting Western values constitutes true progress, highlighting the tension between tradition and change.
What are Unoka's two pleasurable pastimes in "Things Fall Apart"?
Unoka's two pleasurable pastimes are drinking palm wine and playing the flute. Despite often being in debt, he prioritized enjoying life by spending on good food and drink. Unoka found joy in music, particularly during the harvest season when he played his flute with village musicians. He was also hired by other villages to play and teach music, making the most of the dry season's sunny days.
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