The novel “A man from the People” was written by Chinua Achebe, and it describes the society of post-colonial Africa. The story tells about men who were chosen by the people to represent them, their interest, and their lives. The corruption of current authorities makes a school teacher stand up and fight against it. The confrontation between the main characters Odili Samalu and Chief Nanga represents the state of society after the colonial era was over.
Meaning of the Name of the Novel
After reading the title “A Man from the people,” one gets an impression of who the book about would be. One may think that the main character is someone who is chosen by the people to lead them. It is a person who grew up in a small town or village and is well-known to all. It is a man whom people trust and love, because they know him, and they believe that he doesn’t seek fame or profit, he is one of them.
Who is “A Man of the People”?
From the beginning of the novel, the author tells that Chief Nanga is “a man from the people.” People describe him as an honorable and most approachable politician, even though he turned out to be corrupted. To his opposite, there is Odili Samalu, a school teacher, a revolutionist, and activist, who believes that the society he lives in needs changes. While Chief Nanga accepts bribes and personally benefits from his position, young Odili challenges his authority and encourages people to demand equality.
These two men are complete opposites of each other in their characters, their lifestyles, and their political views. The only similarity between them is their origins – they both come from the middle class. Readers observe a confrontation of two men from the people: the one who was chosen by them and the one who is one of them. Both of them represent people’s lack of judgment, an inability to see what’s right under their noses. However, the hope that someone would be strong enough to show them the way still exists.
Problems of Post-colonial Society in Africa in the Novel
The economic and political situation in the country after the end of the colonial era was critical. Through the actions and confrontation of Odidli and Nanga, the author describes how society lives after colonialism ended. The dangerous rise of corruption in the country created a massive gap between the first and middle class. Common people face injustice and inequality of the law comparing to rich people.
The main character Odili Samalu is a school teacher with high moral values and hopes to make a better world who tries to change it. On his example of struggle against his former teacher and a politician Chief Nanga, the author shows the confrontation of two forces in post-colonial society: the wealthy class of those who made their fortune and gained power during colonial times, and middle class who want changes. He points out how bad governance can cause a critical economic situation and encourages people to fight for their beliefs.
Conclusion
The first impression is not always right, and sometimes people are not who they seem to be. Examples of how characters of the novel “A Man form the People” react to injustice in this world teach readers that everyone deserves to be heard and to be equal. Sometimes politicians want to gain profit by using their position, but it is essential to remember that people gave them that power, and they can take it back.