In the novel, Nervous Conditions by Tsitsi Dangarembga, Tambu experiences so many new changes at the mission, such as getting stockings, socks, books, clothes, and shoes as well as learning how to use a toilet and tampons! Even though, in our society no one goes without these items, we see people in Africa, still today without these. I couldn't imagine not having a toilet or shoes to wear, but it's hard to believe that people still live without any of those in present day society. I'm not saying that the way we live is the right way, so this reading didn't clash with my view of the world, because the way of life for someone, may not be the best way to live for someone else. Even though I don't believe in pushing people to do what we think is the appropriate way to live, but I think that it is a good thing to expose people to a different way of living and letting them decide what they want to do. I have really enjoyed reading this text so far, because it's like a window into a world that not many people get to see. I wouldn't change anything about the text, because it is written the way that the author knows how to write. I would like to read something else by this author, and hope that it is written like this one.
You make a good point about how it is good to offer opportunities to people and let them make their own choices. Sometimes those choices come with implications that are important to consider and that one does not find out out about until later. For example, anybody who has met running water will want it because it is so great. However, if you get running water, you need a well (hard to find in a desert), plumbing (which needs to be maintained), a pump (which needs to be powered by some kind of energy), and drains (that need to go somewhere). It can get pretty complicated.
ReplyDeleteIn your next posting, see if you can elaborate a little further on the metaphorical point the author is trying to make.