Power of the Song

Things Fall Apart is full of African culture. Two things that grabbed my attention were the use of song and stories throughout the novel. Songs were usually sang in times of joy and for a calming effect. For example, on page 6 Unoka always turned the subject to lyrics whenever the clan discussed war. He wasn't a fan of war in any way, "He could hear in his mind's ear the blood stirring and intricate rhythms of the ekwe and the udu and the ogene... decorating them with a colorful and plaintive tune." This quick passage about music resembled the use of blues in the 60s and the way that music has the power to change the way one sees life. . There needs to be music to survive, whether to determine the future or to sing praises for the simple acts of nature like rain, "And the children sang, 'The rain is failing, the sun is shining, alone Nnadi is cooking and eating" (pg. 35). Songs also were used to praise accomplishments. When Okafo defeated his opponent in battle the crowd sang a cheer for his victory. Through lyrical ballads, Things Fall Apart exemplifies the importance of music within a culture. Without music, cultures become silent.