THE BEAUTYFUL ONES ARE NOT YET BORN BY AYI KWEI ARMAH NOVEL ANALYSIS

THE BEAUTYFUL ONES ARE NOT YET BORN BY AYI KWEI ARMAH NOVEL ANALYSIS

SETTING: GHANA

TIME: POST INDEPENDENCE

PUBLISHER: HEINEMANN

AUTHOR: AYI KWEI ARMAH

SUMMARY ACCORDING TO TOPICS

1. The Man goes to work at town

2. The Man at work (Morning hours)

3. The man at work (The rest of the day).

4. The Man goes home

5. The Man goes to his friend (Teacher

6. The story of the past

7. The man goes home from his friend’s home

8. The man at work the Next of the day

9. Preparation for Koomson’s Visit

10. Koomson’s and his wife Visit the Man’s home.

11. The Man and Oyo go to Koomson’s home.

12. The Boat and and the fish

13.Coup de tat

14. Koomson’s Escape

15. The Man goes back home he sees Sister Maanan who has run mad and the New bus
(The story is centered to the Man).

THE CONTENT OF THE NOVEL (GENERAL MESSAGE)

The novel talk about social, political and economic issue of the Ghananian people soon after independence which in totality represents African countries at large. In Ghana as other African societies, people expected good life after independence but to their astonishment only leaders are seen enjoying good life while the common people continue to suffer with poverty, ignorance and disease.

The story of the book is centered on the illegitimate government of Kwame Nkurumah which is represented as an Old decayed bus arriving at the bus stand (that means achieving its political independence with a number of weakness ).As the usual system of democracy, Nkurumah elected his men who would help him to lead the new independent country to the extent of ruining the life of most individuals in the country Ghana .For example we see Koomson ,a minister living a luxurious life with hi family through embezzlement of government fund. On the other hand, the Man (the main character) constantly leads a poor life, always being accused by his wife and his mother in-law for not being corrupt.

Corruption is a central theme and it is developed as legal habit to everyone in the country whereby it becomes the order of the day. It is virtually accepted as a legitimate means of enrichment and it is practiced as it is a silent trade,ministers and other officials exercise their practices without being interfered. One is seen brave having been corrupted. If one doesn’t take bribe is seen dull, foolish and coward. For example, the Man was blamed fro not accepting the corruption.

The book also reveal the incompetent government of Nkurumah which inflicted bad morals to everyone who assumed power, be it political or economical, for example the bus conductor used abusive language to his passengers such are ‘’…………..you blood fucking son of bitch……………..you think the bus belong to your grandfather………….’’ (p6
Generally,the independence of Ghana which was achieved through collective forces has been betrayed by few people of Ghana,because it prepared a new set of black masters who were corrupt, thieves and hypocrite as the colonial masters. At last, the incompetence and the ill treatment of Nkurumah’s government to the masses of Ghana lead to the total coup detat of the whole system.

The title

‘’The Beautyful ones are not yet Born’’ is ironical .It does not mean that we are waiting for the beautiful people to be born,but rather we need beautiful and moral people /leaders to take responsibilities of leading the society. The beautiful people/leaders are being born everyday but because of the evils prevailing in our societies they are always dirtied.

Generally, the novel is about general conclusion made by people (character)investigating their situation nd seeing that good readers who will safeguard majority interest are not yet born. There have never known and here will be any serious of each will not save himself (p.g.. 20).
There are leaders to serve themselves and majority of citizens. This truth ins pot rayed looking leadership (before independence).

After Independence and even Coup d tat done by police man and Men all these eras are fully of evils.
The Word itself (Beatyful” was been wrong in Ghana .People helped to reap fruit of Independence. This was not attained by Ghana.

CHARACTERS AND CHARACTERIZATION

1. THE MAN

• He is the central (main) character representing por majority with nothing town in the society, he is being oppressed, exploited and discriminated by the leaders.
• He was employed at Railway administration for a very low salary that can support his poverty stricken family.
• He does not take bribe,but he is still corrupt as shares ill-gotten things with corrupt people like Koomson.
• He is a passive countryman,despite Insults from the bus conductor,tax driver he remained silent, portraying him as a ‘’silent one’’ the sleeper’’ a walking corpse and the watcher,even the taxi driver spat on his face but he still kept quite.
  Oyo’s husband
• He was Educated and waited to join University.
  Add more trait………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
  What does he potray?……………………………………………………………………….

2. JOSEPH KOOMSON

• He represents the privileged group who corrupt the public funds for his own achievement.
• He lives luxurious life.He is corrupt,therefore giving and receiving bribe is anormal thing of his esca,he gives the watchman some moneder to be allowed to pass .He is used to entering big partier.He does not care for the problem of the masses and doesn’t fulfill his responsibilities as a leader.Therefore he is inefficient.
• He buys boat by using public money in the names of Oyo and the man’s mother-in-law (Oyo’s mother) but all the profit realized from the boat is taken by him.He only cheats Oyo and her mother by giving them few fish.Since they are ignorant they accept the fish and keep thinking that the boat belongs to them.
• Before joining the part and being minister he usded to fight for the people.Who the government is overthrown.He escapes by using a boat.
• He is Estella’s husband
• He is corrupt
• What does he potray?……………………………………………………………………….

3. OYO

• She is a Man’s Husband
• She calls her husband Chichidodo (Chichidodo is a bird .it feed on the Maggots breading from the latrine but it hate the faeces that the Maggots live in)against bribery while living in corrupt society where bribe is accepted
• She admires Europeans and their way of Living
• She praises Koomson for his Richness and what she thinks ‘’Civilised’’ Unlike her husband
• She is not aware of the situation going on in Ghana..Add more
• She is very didderent from her husband because she support corruption e.g she calls her husband chichidodo because he he refuses briebe whilehe lives in corrupt society.
• What does he potray?……………………………………………………………………….

4. THE TEACHER

• He is called ‘’silent one’’despite the fact that he knows corruption is being practiced he remain passive and does not educate society about the truth.
• He represents the exploited society.
• He believes that problems are solved either running away from or not getting involved as he runned away from his home in the village.
• He is aware about the whole situation in Ghana.
• What does he potray?……………………………………………………………………….

5 .ESTELLA (PRINCESS)

• She is Koomson’s wife
• She is civilized
• She also admired the
• What does he potray?……………………………………………………………………….

5. ABEDNEGO YAMOAH

• He works in the Government, he sells government petrol for self-gain
• He is being trusted and praised by the people despite the fact that he is a thief
• Add more…………………………………………………………………………………………………
• What does he potray?……………………………………………………………………….

6. NIGHT CLERK

• He accepts bribe from the timber man who wanted to transport timber from the forest illegally.
• He represents leaders who are not responsible for their work due to poverty.
• Add more…………………………………………………………………………………………………..
• What does he potray?……………………………………………………………………….

7. THE ARMY AND THE POLICE

They engage in corruption and bribery instead of fighting it which means they don’t fulfill their moral duties and responsibilities.Ie ‘’………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
‘’……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..’’
What does he potray?……………………………………………………………………….
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

8. SISTER MAANAN

• She represent the poor women who decide to engage themselves in prostitution so as to earn living
• She smokes Marijuana and drinks alcohol thinking that she will forget about their sufferings and problems
• She remains poor, she teaches Koffi Billy to smoke weed thinking they will forget about sufferings and problems.
• She became crazy at the end
• What does he potray?……………………………………………………………………….

9. KOFFI BILLY

• He works in Transportation Company, he lost his leg but the company did not attend him, but sacked him from work and was frustrated.
• He smoked weed with sister Maanan, thinking that it is a cure of his problem, ending up commit suicide.
• Add more traits………………………………………………………………………………………..
• What does he potray?……………………………………………………………………….

10.BUS CONDUCTOR

• He cares about money and not passengers, he represents leaders and the privileged ,he is abusive and corrupt.
• He is hooligan without shame, he spoke badly to the passengers
• Add more traits………………………………………………………………………………………
• What does he potray?……………………………………………………………………….

11 .PASSENGERS.

• They represent the masses exploited,oppressed,humiliated,
• Discriminated.
• Despite poverty ,they still have to pay for the service they want
• They didn’t enjoy the fruits of Independence
• Add more traits………………………………………………………………………………………
• What does he potray?……………………………………………………………………….

12.BENTIL

• Man’s friend who helped to bring Mans beer
• Add more traits………………………………………………………………………………………
• What does he potray?……………………………………………………………………….

13.Uncle Asford

15.Dede,Adoley and Hyvi…….Man’s children

THEMES

Themes means the main underlying ideas in literary work.Ayi kwei Armah has revealed themes which exist in various societies.

Corruption

Corruption is the act of using one’s position for one’s benefit or it is an act of giving and receiving the bribe. Corruption in the novel has been divided in four categories as they have been discussed here.

Bribery

This is the act of giving something so as to be favoured or favour someone.This can be in terms of money, love or any property.

Bribery in the novel has been potrayed in this novel by different people who involve in taking and receiving money so as to be favoured or to favour someone.The first incidence of bribery is when Amankwa, the timber contractor wants to bribe the man so as to get wagon for transportating his timber which is rotting in the forest.This can be proved as the timber contarctor says:
‘’………Take that one for yourself and some fine drink for you.Take it.Take it my friend………’’ Pg 30

Another corruption which is in form of bribery is seen in Ghananian Lottery where by if you win something in the lottery ,it is not easy to get the money even if you go to the police.Ths can be proved as the conversation goes on;
‘’You are afraid you wont get your money? I know people who won more than five thousand cedi last year .They still haven’t got their money’’.

Have they been to the police?

Then the messanger replies

‘’…………It cost you more money if you go to the police………. .What will you do?I think some officials at the Lotterry place will take some of hundred cedis as a bribe and allow me to have the rest…………’’
Bribery is also seen when the police recive bribe from the bus driver who doesn’t have the driving licence.This can be proved as the policeman had said to him in front of everybody;
‘’…………….Even kola gives pleasure in the chewing……………….’’

In this case ,the driver smiles and gives the law twenty five pesewa and the law is satisfied (pg 95).The same policeman involve in taking bribe from the driver so as to allow the bus to go while others arewaiting to bechecked.This can be proved as the policemen says ;
‘’………..Even can say thanks………..’’

The driver understands and hence takes out his licence folder from his shirt pocket,brings out a cedi note from the same place and sticks it in the folder.Then he gives his folder ,together with the bribe in it ,to the police (pg 182)
The incidence of bribery is also seen when Koomson bribes the watchman who allows him to pass while he is escaping after the corrupt government to be overthrown.This can be proved as the writer says
‘’………Give him something,………….the boatman said to koomson……’’ (pg 176).

This shows how most of the African countries are corrupt.That you can not get any service without giving something to one concerned or if you have money to bribe you can do anything even if it is illegal and the the law can be satisfied as it happens to the drivers.

Embezzlement

This means the misuse of the government fund and public theft.Emblezzlemt is done by Josep Koomson who uses the government fund to buy very expensive fishing boats.This can be proved as the man calculate the salary of Joseph Koomson and discovers that he is corrupt and a public thief .This can be proved proved as the man says :
‘’……..I had taken a piece of paper to calculate Koomson ‘s total salary since he joined the party .Now I had droped the paper and said ,Oh I see…….’’

……..My mother in-law asked me what I had seen at last .So I got angry enough to tell her I had seen corruption.Public theft……..’’. (pg 58).The corrupt behavior of Joseph is also proved as he says :

‘’……Yes But the money is not the difficult thing .After all, the commercial Bank is ours,and we can do anything………’’ (pg 136)

Corruption is also seen in the campaign to rid the town of its filth in this campaign the principal secretary in the ministry of health misuses the government fund.This is seen when he uses the government fund to buy few and little boxes which will only be uses the government fund to buy few and little boxes which will only be placed at strategic points all over the city and then will serve not just as containers for waste products but as shining examples of cleanliness.At the end not many of the boxes are put out though there is money which has been paid for them.This means the principal secretarty uses the government fund for his own benefit .So this is ecomic sabotage or corruption (Pg 8).

Embezzlement has also been portrayed by the bursar who misuses the school fund.This can be proved as the speaker says:

‘’……As it is the custom in this country he had regarded his job as an opportunity he had won for making as much money as he could as quickly as he could,and his handling of the school finance had soon made his intentions clear………’’ (pg 109).

Worse enough he even set fire in his office so as to lose the eveince .This can be proved as the writer says:
‘’…..He had brought allocation clerk with him and there was a likelihood that t was he who let it be known that the fire in the bursar’s office was not the work of students ………..’’(pg 110).

The misuse of government fund has also been shown by the class mate of one of the workers of railway who is reffered to as a small boy.This worker uses the CPP money so as to buy expensive cars like Mercedes 220 supper and worse enough he uses those money to deal with girls this can be proved as the man narrates how the workers say:
‘’…………He is only small boy…….Yes,it is the CPP that has been so profitable for him.Two cars now…..’’

You may think Iam lying ,but he was my classmate and now look at me.Ah,life is like that ,’ Ei and girls Running to fill his cars.Trips to the star for week,Girls ,girls.Fresh little ones still going to Achimota’’.He is craking them-like tiger nuts.contrey .You would do the same……True….money swine…….’’ (pg 110).

Economic sabotage

Economic sabotage has also bee portrayed by some of the government officials who misuse the government properties .To begin with Ayi kwei Armah shows how there is misuse of government properties at the Railway Corperation especially in the section of space allocation.

Ths is seen when those railway officials (allocation clerks and his supervisor) let the wagon to go down there carrying nothing but stones.Sometimes empty while they are other people who want to use to transport their goods but they do not get them .This can be proved as the timber contractor tells the man:

‘………..’You think my timber should rot in the forest?Look they tel me all the time ,no wagons,no space .But many times I see wagons coming down here ,carrying nothing but stones,sometimes empty,my good friend ,empty.Is that how to do it? (pg 29).This is economic sabotage……..’’

Exploitation

Exploitation is another form of corruption.In the novel ,most of the leaders are exploitative since they use their power to exploit their fellow Africans who are ignorant.This can be seen when Joseph Koomson,the minister exploits the man and his family.He buys the fishing boats by using Oyo’s name .This is done in terms of partnership.However,Joseph Koomson and his wife do not like to share the profit with the man’s family but insteady they promise to give them fish.This can be proved as Estella says:

‘’……what matters ………is that there will be plenty of fish to eat .You know ,fish is very expensive these days………’’ (pg 138).

However,the man resists against this exploitation by refusing tobsign papers of partnership because he knows that Joseph Koomson just wants to fool them and hence exploit them.This is proved as the man tells Joseph Koomson and his wife :

‘’……….I don’t think I can sign…..’ (pg 150).

Exploitation is also seen when the man is exploited by the government.Ths happens when the man works hard but still he is paid minimal salary which does not satisfy his basic needs.This makes the man to live poor life which makes him fail to get lunch and even to buy shoes for his children.

Exploitation is also revealed when Kofi Billy is exploited by the Brish company during colonialism.When his leg is cut by the machine,he is dismissed from the job and not compensated.This makes him to frustrate and start smoking opium and then commit suicide.

Immorality

This is another problem which faces African countries. Most of people especially leaders are morally corrupt. This is seen when the political leaders like Joseph Koomson likes to make love with young girls. This can be proved as the man narrates:

‘’……..He has come here often , but only like a white man or lawyer now .swinging time at the Atlantic-caprice. Young juice vaginas waiting for him in some hired place paid for by the government …………’’ (pg 89)

Moral corruption is also practiced by other people like the small boy the classmate of one of the railway man. This is seen when he makes love with different small girls known as holy child girls.this can be proved as the speaker says:

“…..ah, life is like that Ei and girls running to fill his cars. Trips to the star for week…..Girls, girls! Fresh little ones still going to achimota and Holy child….. These Holy child girls! Achimota tool! He is cracking them like tiger nuts………..”. (pg 110) This is moral corruption.

Moral corruption can also be caused by poverty. Many people especially women engage in prostitution so as to get there basic needs. This is seen when sister Maanan exchanges love with money. This can be seen as the speaker says: “……….Sister Maanan found refuge in lengthening bottles and the passing foreigner gave her money and sometimes even love…………”. (pg 66)

Immorality is also seen when the man makes love with Oyo before marriage and impregnent her. This makes Oyo’s parents to force the man to marry her. This can be proved when the writer says: “……….Oyo’s pregnancy had not pleased him, but he could remember clearly now that the anguish he had expressed when her parents had come with the long story of their daughter ruined had not been entirely genuine……..”. Pg117

Immorality is also seen when Joseph Koomson makes love wth different women. This is seen when he changes them like pants as the writer says:

“………….women, so horribly young, fucked and changed like pants, asking only for blouses and perfume…….” (page 89)

Immorality is also seen when the bus conductor insults the man as he says:
“………You bloody fucking son of a bitch! Article of no commercial value! You think the bus belongs to your grandfather?……..”

this shows that most of the leaders in Ghanaian society are moral decayed. (page 6)

Immorality is also seen when the taxi driver insults the man when he is missed with the taxi as he says:

“………Uncircumcised baboon? Moran of a frog. If your time has come, search for some one else to take your worthless life”. ( page 9) when the car begins to move he also adds by saying: “ Your mother’s rotten cunt……….”.

This shows that morals have gone down in the society for both leaders and normal people.

Immorality is also seen in Ghanaian society where unpleasant and taboo words are written on the toilet walls and sometimes small drawings of sex in an impossible Indian position with the careful lettering:

“…………………Vagina sweet…………………”. Pg106 .
this shows that Ghanaian society is completely rotten. Morals have completel gone down.

Hypocrisy

Hypocrisy is the behavior in which a person pretends to be good while he is not .

Hypocrisy in this novel is shown by Joseph Koomson who pretends to like to be a businessman instead of being minister. This is seen when he says: (pg 132)
“……………………Some people think being a minister. This is seen when He, he sometimes I wish I had been a businessman instead……………….”.

Hypocricy is also shown by the man who pretends to hate corruption while he likes and eats things obtained from corruption. This makes his wife to regard hias chichidodo as Oyo says: “………………You are the chichidodo itself………………..”. (pg 44)

Chichidodo is a bird who hates excrement with all its sol. But the chichidodo only feeds on maggots, and you know the maggots grow best inside the lavatory.

Hypocricy is also seen in the campaign to rid the town off its filth. In this campaign the leadears such as the principal secretary in the ministry of health buys few and little boxes and places into the strategic points so as to be used as shining examples and not to be used as containers where dirt is thrown. This means the leaders pretend to fight against filth while they are only interested in pleasing the visitors from foreign countries.

Hypocricy is also seen in the campaign to fight against corruption while they engage in it. This is seen when they design the net to catch corrupt people leaving the big corrupt people to pass through it. This is seen when the writer says:

“………………..The net had been made in the special Ghanaian way that allowed the real big corrupt people to pass through it. A net to catch only the small, dispensable fellows, trying in their anguished blindness to leap and to attain the gleam and the comfort……………….”. (pg 154)

Betrayal

This is the act of going contrary to what you are supposed to support. This also means the failure to implement what has been decided by the committee or the society in general.

Betrayal is done by the leaders such as Joseph Koomson. This is seen when Joseph Koomson betrays his party when he buys and owns very expensive fishing boats contrary to his party’s ideology. This is seen when Joseph Koomson says:

“………But they say we are socialist ministers, so we shouldn’t do these things………”. (pg 137)
Betrayal is also seen when the leaders use their power and positions to exploit poor people. This is seen when Joseph Koomson betrays the man’s family by exploiting them. This is seen when he makes partnership with the man’s family where he buys the fishing boats using Oyo’s name ends up giving them fish instead of sharing the profit. This is seen when Estella, Joseph Koomson‘s wife says;

“…………What matters…….is that there will be plenty of fish to eat. You know, fish is foully expensive these days…………”.(PG 138)

In addition he promises to buy a fishing boat for Oyo and her mother if they sign certain forms of loans. However, after filling those forms, Joseph Koomson buys fishing boats and writes the name of his daughter, Princess.
Betrayal is also seen when the leaders betray their people by living luxurious life while their people are living poor life. A good example is Joseph Koomson who lives in a very expensive house known as bungalow while people like the man live poor life which makes them even fail to get lunch and buy shoes for their children.

Betrayal is also done by the leaders who are irresponsible and lack of seriousness. This is seen in the campaign to rid the town of its fith. The leaders such as principal secretary betray the government and its people. The government provides a lot of money to be used in that campaign but the principal secretary misuses it and hence buys little and few boxes to be used as shining examples when these boxes are full, he fails to carry and send to the dumping place. This irresponsibility which is betrayal.

Betrayal is also done by the police who fail to perform their duties effectively and end up engaging in corruption. This is seen when the police demand and receive corruption from the driver who does not have the quarter license. The driver gives 25 pasewa to the police and he is allowed to drive while he doesn’t have the quarter license. “……………Once when the man was travelling to cape coast three different policemen had stopped the little bus and asked the driver for his quarter license. The driver had not bought it yet and each of the policemen had said to him infront of everybody Even Kola gives pleasure in the chewing. In each case the driver had smiled and given the law twenty five pesewa and the law was satisfied………….’’. (pg 95)

Betrayal is also done by the Bursar who betrays the students by misusing the school fund. “………..Before coming to the railway administration, a bursar at one of the Ghana National Secondary School as is the coustomer in this country, he had regarded his job as an opportunity he had won for making as much money as he could as quickly as he could…………”. (pg 109)

Betrayal is also shown by the small boy who betrays the government and the society by misusing CPP money. He uses the CPP money to buy three expensive cars and make love with small girls known as Holy child girls. (pg 110)
“………………..Yes, it’s the CPP that has been so profitable for him…… hei girls, girls. Fresh little ones still going to Achimota….. These Holy child girls Achimota too! He is cracking them like tiger nuts………”.
Betrayal is also seen when Joseph Koomson betrays his wife by making love with small girls known as young juice vaginas. This can be proved when the writer says
“……….Young juicy vaginas waiting for him in some hired place paid for by the government…”. Pg 89

Poverty

Poverty refers to the lack of basic needs such as food, shelter and clothes. Poverty also means the state or condition of having little or no money, goods, or means of support.
Poverty during the period of colonialism

This is seen when the people were living poor life. For example children were suffering from hunger and they were forced to pick all mangoes even those which were unready so as to satisfy their hunger as the writer says; “…………..There were so many children with so many hungers and desires. Stones flying upward and arcing down, bringing not the wanted fruit but entire bunches of unready mangoes……………….’’. (pg 67)

Poverty is also seen when Kofi Billy lived poor life after his leg being cut by the machine. He was unable to meet his basic needs such as food, shelter and he was forced to live and stay in the beach and lastly committed suicide. Therefore it was poverty which made Kofi Billy to commit suicide.
Poverty during the struggle for independence

This Is seen when the politician used to live poor life. They were living by begging and sleeping in the veranda of others as the new one says:
‘’…….I have come to you and you can see that I have nothing in my hand a few here know where I live. Not much is there .And even what is there is not my own. Before she saw me I did what we all do, and I slept on other people’s veranda……..why should I feel ashamed when proud men look down and say veranda boy?…………..’’ (pg 87).
Poverty immediately after independence

Poverty is seen an old woman who fails to give her children food and goes the man’s home at night to beg for for sugar as she says:
‘’……Here Iam again, sugar would you be pleased to lend me a little sugar? Just for the children….. ’’

Poverty is also seen through man who fail to get lunch and when he gets eats miserable food known as street fufu i.e. gari and beans as the writer says;
‘’….……..He would like some good fufu, but without a lot of meat, street fufu is miserable food and with meat the coast will crucify a man completely………….. ‘’ (pg 110).

Poverty is also seen when a man fails to buy shoes for his children and make one of his son’s toe to be torn by using glass. This makes the mother in law to call that son an orphan.(pg 123).
‘’………………You are an orphan, a complete orphan. You mustn’t run around,l ike people who have men behind to buy them shoes…..’’

Poverty is also seen through a man lives in a house whose cushions have tiny holes. This means the man has failed to buy new cushions because he doesn’t have money. This can be proved when the writer says :
‘’…………….there were hundreds of tiny holes in the pattern of the cloth. It would be necessary to buy new cushions, in fact, but of course that was altogether out of the question………………………’’ pg 118.

Poverty is also seen through the man who lives in a small house full of small mice.This can be proven when the writer says:
‘’……………….He took the book outside ,and when he returned he saw that at the back of the case there was a small family of mice ,the little bodies lying one on the top of other in soft, helpless confused………….’’ pg 118.

Drug Abuse

This is the habitual taking of addictive or illegal drugs.
Drug has been shown though sister Maanan who smokes opium so as to forget her problems such as poverty. This is proved when the writer says:
‘’……………Maanan only kept passing the burning wee from mouth to mouth and with a smile in her voice…………….’’ pg 71.

Sister Maanan also taught Koffibilly and the man how to smoke opium as the writer says:
‘’…………Maanan brought it and and showed us how to light it and to smoke it, one of us dragging at a time………….’’. (pg 70).

Drug abuse is not good because it makes or lifts the blindness and let you see the whole of your life laid out in front of you.

This problem of drug abuse also exists in our society where most of people especially young people, smoke opium because of frustration which they get in life. This makes them sometimes to be mad or confused.
What effects does drug abuse have to the society?

Importance of education.

Education has been potrayed as the basic key for life. That education can make a person to improve his life. This is seen when the man who has got grade II certificate plans take the advanced levels. This will make him to leave the railway administration and go to the university level. This will help him to get a good job and hence improve his life. (pg 117).This is seen when the writer says:
‘’…………..He knew he had got a grad II certificate .He had felt quite confidence that in a few years he could take the advanced levels. He would have left the Railway administration……………….and he would have gone over to the University at Legon…………’’ (p.g 117).

Education is also used by students to protest against the bursar’s corrupt behavior. Therefore education should be used to make changes in the society and improve people’s life.

Irresponsibility and lack of seriousness

Irresponsibility is the quality of not being trust worthy dependable or accountable. Irresponsibility in this novel has been shown by leaders such as Joseph Koomson who use to sleep during the important meeting. This is comfirmed by Joseph Koomson as he narrates a story.
“…………….I have tried to find out what he really said, but it seems I wasn’t the only one who slept that day. I woke up when I heard some clapping. The others also woke up and we all clapped and said “Yeah yeah………………”.

This shows how most of leaders are irresponsible since when they attend important and special meetings like parliamentary meetings, they sleep instead of discussing serious problems which face their people.

Irresponsibility has also been portrayed by using the railway workers. Most of the railway workers are irresponsible since they don’t perform their duties effectively. This is seen when they sleep while they are on duty at night. A good example can be seen by looking to the night clerk who sleeps during the night while he is on duty at the control desk.

This can be proved when the speaker says:
“…………….At the control desk the night clerk was still in his seat but he had fallen asleep”. This irresponsibility causes accidents as the night clerk report shows: ……………….. “29G No guard (due accident en route).

Irresponsibility is potrayed when the police failed to perform their duties effectvelly.This can be be seen when they receive bribe from the drivers and allows them to continue even if they don’t have licence.T his can be proved when three policemen stop the little bus and ask for licence. However the driver has not brought it yet.This make policemen to say infront of everybody;
‘’……..even kolanuts gives pleasure in the chewing…………’’ pg 95.

This makes the driver to smile and gives the low twenty five passewa and the law is satisfied (pg 95).

Irresponsility is also seen at railway cooperation where the supervisor in the allocation let the wagon to go free or empty while there are some people like Amankwa who want to hier them. This make the government to get a big loss.This can be proven when Amankwa says:
‘’…………………….you think my timber should rot in the forest? Look, they tel me all the time,no wagons,no space.But many times I see wagon coming down here carrying nothing but stones.Sometimes empty.My good friend ,empty………………………’’ pg29.

Irresponsibility is also seen in the campaign to rid the town its filth.The principal secretary buys little and few boxes which are placed in strategic points. However when they are full no is responsible to carry them to the dumping place. This make the whole town start smelling.

Irresponsibility is also seen through the ministry of education for failing to take measure against the bursar who is corrupt despite the letter of complain which the students write against the bursar. The ministry of education dismiss all students who are responsible for writing the letter. When the students riot the whole school is closed and the bursar is promoted to the higher position and he becomes the supervisor in space allocation.

Irresponsibility is also seen through Zacharia lagos who writes off the health and long wood which he sells it in town at very expensive price for his own benefit. This also makes the government to get a big loss.
Irresponsibility is also seen in the campaign to rid off corruption. In this campaign leaders design the net which catches only small corrupt people who fight for gleam but let big corrupt to float free as the writer says:
‘’…………………..The net has been made in a special Ghanania way which allows the big fish to pass through it.A net only catches small fish dispensable fellow, trying in anguished blindedness to leap and to attain gleam and the confort the only way these things could be done.And the big one float free like all the slogan end bribery and corruption………’’ pg 154.

This shows all government leaders and their officials are irresponsible since they are more interested in money rather than duties which they are supposed to perform and hence make them to be ineffective and incompetent.

Disillusionment

Disillusionment means disappointment or despair. This is the act of people loosing hope for their future. This can be caused by the type of system which is exploitative, oppressive and discriminative. Such system can make people to be poor and hence being frastuted.Disappointment in this novel has been potrayed by using Koffibilly.Koffibilly is disappointed after losing his leg which is cut by the machine. He is not compensated and worse enough he is dismissed his job which makes him fail to meet his basic needs. This make him to frustrated hence be disappointed. Koffibilly resort into taking wee as he is taught by sister Maana.

However he is not satisfied with the kind of life which they live since he does not have any hope for the future.This make him to despair completely and decides to commit suicide. This can be proved as the narrator narrates:
‘’……………………..It was the Sunday after that Koffibilly’s body was found.He was hanging from a sheet down from the to bar……..he had made some strenuous effort just before he died……………….’’

What make koffibilly to be destroyed while he is not violent which is caused by the capitalist system which existed during colonialism? This system was exploitative, oppressive and discriminative.(pg 75)

The theme of disappointment is also potrayed through Sister Maanan who is frustrated and then engage herself in prostution, taking wee and alcohol thinking that ist a solution to her problems.So she is despaired woman who has lost hope for her future because of the existing system which is exploitative ,oppressive and discriminative. This can be proved as the writer says:
‘’……………….Sister Maanan found refuge in lengthening bottles, and the passing foreigner gave her money and sometimes even love……………….’’ (pg 66).

Another disappointment has been potrayed through the messenger who won lottery but he is not sure of getting his prize without bribing the lottery officials.The messenger is more confused when he learn bitter truth that even if he goes to the police he has to bribe both the police and the lottery officials.This disappointment has been caused by the quick decay of the country of Ghana which represents the African countries.This can be proven as the man says:
‘’………………………….Let us say just that the cycle from birth to decay has been short. Short brief.May be there are other lonely voices despairing now.I will not be be entranced by the voice even if it should swell as it did in the day of hope. I will not be entranced, since I have seen the destruction of the promises it made…………’’.(pg 63).

This decay which happen in the Ghananian society makes people who were hard and good workers like the man to be discouraged and hence lose, the desire of working harder.This can be proved as the man says:
‘’…………………You know teacher, I feel real tired these days.I don’t think I work any harder .But there is not so much desire…………………………………’’(pg 91).

Disappointment is also seen when the teacher despairs completely due to corruption which exist in his society. this is seen through the conservation between the teacher and the man. You’re still hopping, aren’t you, teacher? Hopping for what?. Anything. An end to this….. a beginning to something else .Anything? No. not anymore. Not hope, anyhow. I don’t feel any more hope, unless you want to pretend, or forget, or get drunk or something. No. also am one of the dead people, the walking dead. A ghost. I died long ago.

Disappointment is also seen when students despair because of corruption which is done by thr bursar who misuses the school fund. This makes the students to write letter of complaint to the ministry of education. However; they are more disappointed when they are all dismissed from the school. Worse enough the school is closed when the students riot. The corrupt bursar is promoted to the high post and he becomes the supervisor in space allocation.

Amankwa is also disappointed with corruption which exists in Railway Corporation. This is seen when they let wagons to go free or empty while he wants to hire them in order to transport his timber which is rotting in the forest. When then tells them to give him wagons, they tell him that there is no wagons. This makes him to start engaging in corruption so as to get wagons to transport his timber rotting in the forest.

Alienation

This is the act of isolating a person from his society or friends.This can also mean disasfication or estrangement of a person from the society. This theme has been potrayed by using Koffibilly who decides to alienate himself from the society and live alone because he doesn’t see the meaning of the life which he is living with the man and sister Maanan.This can be seen as the writer says:

‘’………………there was not much talk after that, not between the three of us ,for kofi Billy decides to alienate himself completely from the world because he cannot be held by the world which is full of violent and injustice. This can be proved as the writer says: it was the Sunday after the kofibilly body was found. He was hanging from a treat, down from the top bar of the finished door of house not yet finished then. The leg of the wood and metal………….was covered with his blood ………………perhaps while he was trying to kick over a large upended brick underneath him……..pg 75

Alienation can also be seen through a teacher who has decided to isolate himself from his society. This is seen when he decides to live alone. This can be proved from the conversation between the man and the teacher.
‘’……………..Teacher, you choose to be alone’ oly because I can’t drive…..’ pg (pg 59).

However the teacher is not happy to live alone but he just forced by the the corrupt environment which exists. This can be proved as he says:
‘’………….How can I think Iam doing the right thing when Iam alone and there are so many .I have run from who is right at all? I know I have chosen something but it is not something I would have chosen if I had the power to choose truly………..’’ (pg 60

Alienation is also seen when the man decides to alienate himself from his family because his wife forces him to engage in corruption. However when he goes to the teacher, he advises to return to his wife and his family.

The leaders have also alienated from their people. This is seen when they live luxurious life while their people are living poor life. A good example is Joseph koomson who lives in expensive house known as bungalow while his people such as the man live in houses whose cushion have got tiny holes.

The leaders such as Joseph Koomson have alienated from their culture when they give their children foreign name which are meaningless. This is seen when Joseph Koomson calls his daughter princess

The treatment of alienation in this novel shows that many people alienate themselves because they are forced by the system which is exploitative, oppressive and discriminative. However, to alienate yourself from the society as KofiBilly and the teacher did ,is not a good solution for solving problems. People should struggle in order to remove the system which is undesirable.

Oppression and Humiliation

Oppression is the act of treating someone harshly or cruelly. This also means the act of governing someone harshly or cruelly. Humiliation is the act of injuring one’s dignity or self respect .This also means embarrassment or disgrace.
Oppression and humiliation are problems which goes hand in hand. Many people in Africa are oppressed or humiliated by the system which is humiliative or oppressive or by other people who have corrupt behavior.

Oppression is seen in the novel when the students who are responsible draftingthe letter of complaint to the ministry of education to reveal the corrupt behavior of the school bursar who misuses the school fund are dismissed and when other students riot to protest the government’s oppression, the school is closed. This can be proved as the writer says:
‘’………………the ministry as is usual in the in the country ,had searched for the students most responsible for the drafting complaint and dismissed them for gross in subordination. The remaining students had rioted. The ministry, looking for more students to dismiss had closed the school down……..’’ (pg 109.

Oppression is also shown through one man who tries to get his rent reduced .However, because the land lord is the uncle of the rent control man and both call party activists, he is arrested and sent by the police to Accra.This can be proved as the writer says:
‘’……………..In the man’s area the landlord is the uncle of the rent control man and both call themselves party activists. One Man had tried to get his ren reduced, wiring to the party secretary in Accra.Poor fool,he still believed .He was called a saboteur, a nation wrecker, and many other party words and then in the end since he would not stop his talk of justice, he was taken by the police to Accra…………..’’ pg 95

Oppression is shown by using kofibilly who is mistreated by the British company during colonialism. This happens when his leg is cut off while moving cargo.The free rope whips with all that power through the air and cuts Kofibilly’s right leg away beneath the knee. Kofi Billy is oppressed by being dismissed from his job and worse enough he is not compensated ‘’ (pg 66).

This makes him to frustrate and resort in taking opium (wee) and later on commitin suicide (pg 75)
Humiliation has been potrayed when the man is humiliated by the bus conductor and his driver by insulting him and the driver who pollutes him by using his mucus. This can be proved as the the bus conductor says;
‘’………………You bloody fucking son of bicth Article of no commercial values .You think the bus belong to your grandfather……………..’’ (pg 6

The same man is also humiliated by the tax driver who insult him after missing him. This can be proved as the tax driver says;
‘’………………….Uncircumcised baboon………………’’ .He also add by saying : ‘’…………..Moron of a frog.If your time has come come search for someone also to take your worse less life…………..’’Lastly ,he finishes by saying ‘’…your mother’s rotten cunt…………..’’.This has been used to show how the society is completely rotten since it is full of evils which make people to be frustrated (pg 9).

Humiliation is also shown when the man is humiliated by his wife. This is seen when he calls him chichidodo, a bird who hates excrement with all its soul .Bit only feeds on maggots which grows best inside the lavatory .This can be proved as Oyo tells her husband.
‘’………….You are chichidodo itself………….’’pg 44.

The man faces this humiliation and oppression from his wife because he doesn’t like to co-oprete with Joseph Koomson who is corrupt leader. This makes the man run away fro his family and go to the teacher to get advice.

Racial Discrimination

Racial discrimination is unfavorable treatment based on prejudice especially regarding race,age and sex. Racial discrimination has been shown by using the white. White people used to discriminate black people in various aspects such as shelter.

During colonialism white used to live on the hills having bungalows surrounded by fences and hedges where Africans were not allowed to enter since they had their own places for livings

There was also discrimination in terms of social services such as water. Africans were forced to use the water which had already been used by the whites on the hills (pg 6

Cultural imperialism.

This is another problem which exists in most of the African societies. Most Africans especially leaders and their wives have been influenced (oriented) by the western culture. People worship things from Europe unsteady of the locally made materials. For example , Estella Koomson’s wife despite the local beer and praises the whisky which is the Europeans beer. This can be proved as Estella herself says:

‘’……….this local beer does not agree with my constitution……’’ pg (131).Estella also adds by saying to make things worse she again says: You should have bought European drinks…….. and not have wasted your money like this ……’ (pg 131 and 132)

The ma’s wife (Oyo) has also been influenced by western culture when she straightens her hair like white woman because she does not like to appear natural.This can be proed as Oyo says:
‘’……….Iam just trying to straighten it out a bit now,to make it presentable…..’’.Then her husband asks:
‘’………what is wrong with its natural? Oyo says:It is bush women who wear the hair natural……’’pg (129).

Ministers have also been influenced by western culture. This seen when they send their children in Europe and International school because of wrong beliefs that the local schools do not offer quality education. This can be seen in (pg 92)as the writer comments: ‘’…………what stops them sending their loved children to kindergartens in Europe and if the little men around the Big men can send their children to new international schools, why not? That is all anyone here even struggle for to be nearer the white me…..’’ (pg 92).This can also be regarded as betrayal which is done by the African leaders.

The leaders have also completely been alienated from their own culture. This is seen when they even give their children foreign names, which are meangless in the African context instead of indigenous names for example Joseph Koomson who calls his daughter princess (pg148).This name make evn aman to be surprised as he asks Estella:’’…..Is that her real name or some sort pof nickname?………..’’(pg 148.

Cultural imperialism is also shown through Joseph Koomson who speak Ghananian rhythm. This can be proven when the man says: ‘’The voice of the suited man had something unexpected about it, like a fisherman’s voice with the sand and the salt hoarsening it forcing itself into unaccustomed English rhythms……….’’

Ignorance

Ignorance means the lack of knowledge or important skills also means the lack of important information.

Ignorance has been portrayed by people who don’t know what is happening in their own society.A goog example is a man who comes in the office without knowing that coup d’état has happened in the country. This can be proved from the conversation between the man and the messenger:
‘’ …..Ei, these coups .The messenger exclaimed……’’Has there been another one………’’The man asked the messenger .’’…..Yea man In Africa or somewhere else?….’’Today ,today here in Ghana!’’ (pg 157).

Ignorance has also been shown by using a man and her mother. Oyo and her mother think that by cooperating with Joseph Koomson,their family can be rich .They don’t know that although Ioseph Koomson pretends to be a socialist, he is a real capitalist who is interested only in profit making.This can be proved as Oyo signs the contract (partnership) which enable Koomson to buy the boats using Oyo’s name’’.(pg 42).Oyo doesn’t understand the secret using her name in order to buy the fishing boats even when it is made clear by Estella the wife of Joseph Koomson
’’ What matters ….there will be plenty of fish to eat.You fish is very expensive these days’’.

This shows how most of African leaders use people’s ignorance so as to exploit them.
Ignorance is also shown by using people who celebrate and make demonstration when the new government takes over the power after the former government being overthrown. They do so while they don’t know the men and how they will be. This can be proved through the conversation between the man and the old new union man.
‘’………………country, what about you? We are all demonstrating……..’’.’’For what don’t you know there is a new government?……………’’.For what don’t you know there is a new government?.They tell me so. But I know nothing about the men .what will I be demonstrating for?…….’’ (pg 158).

Ignorance is also seen when people support and praise people who are corrupt. This is seen when Zakaria Lagos who is corrupt is arrested people calls him a good generous man and curse the jealous man who has informed on him.

Role and position of Women.

Women in the novel have been portrayed to perform the following roles:

To advise their husbands and society at large about various matters such as life. This can be seen by using Oyo who used to advise her husband to engage into corruption so as to be prosperous. This can be seen in many matters;
‘’……..Teacher ,my wife explained to me step by step that life was like lot of roads:long roads,short roads wide and narrow, steep and level.She let me know that human beings were like so many many people driving their cars on all roads……..Those who wanted to get far had tolearn to drive fast…….’’.(pg 58).

To mobilize people. Women have also the responsibility of mobilizing people to participate into political matters. This can be seen by using sister Maanan who keeps on mobilizing people to to the rally(political meeting) to hear the new man who organize them to demand for their independence. This can be proved in (pg 84). Despite the despair of people, many of them attend the meeting contrary to their expectations: (pg 84).’’You people are late .You haven’t seen him yet…..’’(pg 84).This shows how most of the women are good mobilizes.

To Take care of their family and other people .This can be seen by using Oyo who takes care of her children by making sure that they have eaten some food. This is seen when he gives them some food to eat while they have already been given by their grandmother.(pg 119).

To assist (help) the politicians: Sometimes women play role of assisting the politicians especially during the struggle for independence. A good example is sister Maanan who help the new man by giving him food and shelter while he is trying to organize people as the new man says:
‘’…………………I have come to you.And you see that I have nothing in my hands.A few here know where I have .Not much is there .And even what is there is not my own.It is the kindness of a woman,one of you now here ,Before she saw me I did what we all do.and I sleeo on other people’s veranda……………’’

To entertain people: Women also play another role of entertaining people in the society and family. A good example is seen when Oyo ,the wife of the man entertains Mr. Joseph koomson and his wife when they come at their homes. This is seen when she prepares food for them and invites them to enjoy the food.(pg 132).This can be proved as the writer says:
‘’….When the drinking has gone on for some time,Oyo asked every one was hungry enough to start eating…………’’Oyo also wipes a small stream of beer when it runs down the party man’s jaw and then pours some bear from her own bottle into koomson’s mug. She continues filling up mugs until they are empty…….’’ (pg 132).

To do home activities: This is another responsibility of women especially African women. This can be seen when Oyo is in the kitchen preparing food for Joseph Koomson and his children. This is seen when Oyo comes out of the kitchen tired but smelling with pleasure as she says:
‘’……..I stillhave few things to do………………..’’(pg 127).Oyo also involve himself into giving her children some food thinking that her mother has not done so.This can be proved as her mother asks Oyo:
‘’………..Where are you going Oyo?….’’
Then Oyo replies:
’’………………..I will give the children something to eat………………….’’ (pg 129)

Ayi kwei Armah has portrayed the position of women in African society. Women has been portrayed negatively as weak people and positively as strong people. To begin with, Ayi kwei Armah has portrayed women negatively as people who like expensive and luxurious life. This can be seen when Oyo want to live luxurious life. This can be seen when Oyo wants to live luxurious life like the life of Joseph Koomson and his wife are living. This can be seen as Oyo tells her husband.
‘’…….May be you like this…………………..but I’m tired of it.I would like to have someone drive me where I want to go…………………’’.Like Estella Koomson? Yes, like Estella.And why not?Oyo continues….’’ Everybody is swimming toward what he wants who want to remain on the beach asking the wind, How…………….How………….’’

Women are also potrayed as creature which like to persuade other people especially men to do evils especially me.This is seen when Oyo persuade her husband to engage into corruption so as to be prosperous.This can be seen as man narrates:
‘’……………This was the point at whichb she told me that those who wanted to get far had learn to drive fast.Accidents would happen,she told me but the fear of accidents would never happen,she told me but the fear of accidents would never keep men from driving and Joseph Koomson had learned to drive……’’ (pg 59).

Another example is seen when sister Maanan keeps on teaching the man and Kofi Billy to smokewee (opium) so as to forget their problems.This can be proved as the Man narrates:
‘’………Maanan brought it and showed us how to light it and smoke it,one of us dragging at a time….’’ (pg 70).This also relates with what is potrayed in the bible in which women keep onpersuading people to commit sin.A good example is when Eve persuaded Adam to eat the fruit which has been forbidden by God.

Women are also potrayed as weak people since they engage themselves in prostitution so as to meet their basic needs. This has been shown by sister Maanan who engage in prostitution so as to meet her basic needs, Tis can be proved as the writer narrates ;
‘’……Sister Maanan found refuge in lengthening bottles and the passing foreigner gave her some money and sometimes even love …….’’ (pg 66).

Women have also been potrayed as tool of entertainment. Most of people in African society like to use women as tool of entertainment. This is seen through big people like ministers like to change women like pants. Those women like to the already hire places like Antlantic Caprice so as to entertain the leaders .This can be proved as the writer says:
‘’Young juice vaginas waiting for him in some hired places paid for by the government .Important people must relax on weekends……..’’.(pg 90).

Another incidence which shows how women are potrayed as a tool of entertainment is seen when a small boy ,the classmate of one of the railway worker used to crack girls tiger like nuts .This can be proved as the man narrates.
‘’………….Swinging nigger man, girls.Fresh little .one of the railway worker used to crack girls like tiger nuts……………’’ (pg 110).This shows that women are there for entertainment of men.

Women have also been portrayed as Home mother (wives).Most of women are uneducated and hence ignorant. This makes them to be home mothers because they don’t have any kind of employment. So the only alternative is to stay at home and do home activities.A good example can be seen by using Oyo. the wife of the man. Oyo is unemployed therefore she is forced to remain home so as to prepare food for the family and to feed children.This is seen when the writer says:
‘’Oyo came out of the kitchen,tired but smilling with pleasure………….’’ (pg 127).

Positively women have been portrayed as people who have convincing power.vThis Is seen when sister Maanan succeds to persuade people to go to the rally so as to hear the new man who is trying to organize fellow Africans to liberate themselves. So this make women to be regarded as revolutionalists, people who like changes in the society .This is seen when sister Maanan keep on assisting politicians by giving them food and shelter. This can be proved as the new man says:
‘’…..I have come to you .And you can see that I have nothing in my hands.A few here know where I like .Not much is there.Even what is there is not my own .It is the kindness of a woman ,one of you now here .Before she saw me (did what we all do ,and I sleep on other people’s veranda….’’ (pg 87).

Conflict

Conflict between the man and Joseph KoomsonThis conflict happen when Koomson who is the minister involves in corruption when he uses the government fund to buy fishing boats .However the man refuses his name to used in buying fishing boat .

This conflict is also caused by exploitation done by Josepph Koomson to the man’s family. This is seen when he makes partnership with the man’s family to buy the fishing boats by using their name. However, refuses to share the profit obtained from the fishing boats. This makes the man refuses to sign the contract.This is economic conflict

Conflict between the Man and his wife,Oyo

This conflict happens when a man refuses to involve in corruption so as to succeed in life.For example, the man refuses to receive bribe from Amankwa,the timber contactoctor.This makes his wife to hate him and call chichidodo. The man escape from his wife and goes to live with his friend known as the teacher. This is also economic conflict.

Conflict between the man and Amankwa, the timber contractor

This conflict happens when Amankwa attempts to bribe the man so as to get Wagon to transport his timber rotting in the forest.However ,the man refuses to accept the bribe .This makes Amankwa to hate the man as he says :’’…….You are very wicked man .You will nener prosper………’’ pg 107

Conflict between the bursar and and the students

This conflict happens when the bursar misuses the school fund.This makes the student to complain by writing the letter to the ministry of education. However, The ministry of education responds by dismissing all the students who wrote the letter of complaint. The office is set in fire and the school is closed while the bursar is shifted to the high post and he becomes the supervisor in space allocation.

(Economic conflict)

The conflict between the army, ie the soldiers and the police in one hand and yhe corrupt government
This happen when the corrupt government of Joseph Koomson involve in corruption.This makes the soldiers and the police to overthrow the corrupt governmentof Joseph Koomson.This conflict continue when the corrupt leaders are arrested and put in in jail as it is said:
(pg 157)’’They say they have seized power Army men and policemen .They said all big party men were being arrested and placed in something called protective custody………..’’pg 157.

The conflict between the man and Estella

This conflict happen when Estella doesnot like to drink local beer.She wants only to drink Europen beer known as whisky. This makes a man to go aginst her as conversation goes on:
‘’……………This local beer she was saying does not agree with my constitution……’’.And a man replies :’’And what sort of constitution is that you have…………………….’’ (pg 131).This disagreement between the man and Estella (social conflict)

LITERARY TECHNIQUES

Literary techniques refers to artistic techniques used so as to deliver the message to the society and the world at large.There are various techniques used by Ayi kwei Armah to send the message to the rreaders.

Title

The title, ’’The Beautyful ones are not yet born has been used symbolically and ironically.
Symbolically the title has been used to symbolize good leaders who do not exist in most of African societies.This is because most of the African leaders who are trusted by the people are the ones who are corrupt.A good example is Joseph Koomson who is a corrupt leader hence.’’The Beautyful ones are not yet born’’

The title has also been used ironically.This is seen when the title ‘’The Beautyful ones Are not yet Born is contrary to the reality because the beautiful ones are always being born in the society but they are polluted by the corrupt environment which exists in most of African societies.This gives the message that the leaders should stop involving themselves in corruption since they are supposed to be the Beautiful one in their societies.

Symbolism

Symbolism is defined as as something concret is used to represent or stands for something that is abstract.Ayi kwei Armah has used different symbols so as to deliver his intende message to the readers.

The decayed bus

This has been used to symbolize the corrupt country of Ghana.This has been used to show that immediately after getting independence the country of Ghana was attacked by the problem of corruption which made the government to be overthrown.This givest he message that corruption is not good because it makes the government to be overthrown.

Chichidodo

Chichidodo has been used to show hypocrisy and shows how in a corrupt society there are some people who pretend to hate corruption while they like and eat things obtained through corruption.A good example is the man who pretends to hate corruption but likes and eats fish obtained from Joseph Koomson’s fishing boats.This gives the message that it is difficult to avoid corruption if you live in the society which is fully of corruption.

An old man child.

This has been used to symbolize the country of Ghana which was the first country to get her indepenedence but within a very short period she became the most corrupt country in the world and its government was overthrown.This gives the message that corruption is not good since it can make the government to be overthrown.

The enedless power of the night.

This has been used to symbolize corruption and shows how corruption is very powerful in the most of African societies.That it is able to attract every individual to engage into it.This gives the message that people should struggle to engage into corruption because it is very powerful in attracting people to engage in it.

Kolanuts

This has been used to symbolize bribery and corruption and shows how police who are supposed to fight against corruption engage in it. This gives the message that police should stop involving in corruption because it makes them fail to perform their duties effectively. Therefore corruption is an enemy of justice.

Ghanaian net which has allows the big corrupt people to pass through it.

This has been used to symbolize the law which protects the corrupt people. This shows that most of the laws in a corrupt society are made to protect the big corrupt people and victimize the small business people who struggle to attain the gleam. This gives the message that laws should not be made to protect some people who are economically powerful. Laws should be made to defend justice.

The roads ie narrow and steep roads

These have used to symbolize illegal ways of obtaining wealth such corruption.This shows if you want to succeed in the life you have to engage in corruption.

Long,wide and level roads.

Thes have been used to symbolize legal ways of getting wealth.That sometimes you can succeed in life by using legal ways.

The bus conductor

This has been used to symbolize corrupt leaders such as ministers and shows how most of the leaders such as ministers are corrupt, they use their position in order to enrich themselves.This gives the message that people who have power and high positions in the government should stop using their power and positions to enrich themselves.

The passengers such as the man

This has been used to show people who are always exploitated by the leaders but they become passive because they exploit them.This gives the message that people should struggle to fight against exploitation or corruption because it is the source of poverty or underdevelopment.

The nakedness.

This has been used to symbolize purity and honest.This shows that aprt from the society being of corruption,still there are some people who remain pure and honest.They completely resists against corruption.This makes them to be regarded as wicked and cowards who will never succeed in life .A good example is the man who completely refuses to engage himself in corruption despite the pressure he gets from his wife.

Latrine that reeks excrement

This has been used to symbolize corruption which exists in the society of Ghana and shows how the country of Ghana is stincking corruption.

The use of coins

This has been use to symbolize poverty which exists in Ghnanian society.Most of people in Ghana society live poor life. A good example is the old woman who fails to provide food to his children.This gives the message that corruption is the source of povery in the society.People should therefore fight against leaders since they cause people to live poor life.

Imagery

Imagery is the technique in which the language is used to creat an image or amental picture of something into the readers minds.In the novel imagery is seen when the writer says:

‘’…………….The visitors mouth was the wolf shape and when he spoke the reasons appeared the children had a name for such teeth.Nephews,they called these teeth which come in rows,are second and even a third set pushing impatiently out against the first………………….’’ Pg 27

This has been used to show how most of business people are corrupt since they involve corruption in their business. This gives the message that it is not good to involve corruption in the business.

Imagery has also been seeb when the writer says: ’’….Ah you know,the chichidodo is the bird .The chichidodod hates excrement with its soul.But the chichidodo only feeds on maggots and you know the maggots grows best inside the lavatory.This is chichidodo’’ pg 45.

This gives an image of hypocrisy and shows how most of people in corrupt society pretend to hate corruption while they like and eat things obtained from corruption.A good example is the man who hates corruption but prefers the things like Joseph Koomson’s car and eats fish obtained from Joseph Koomson’s fishing boats.This gives the message that it is difficult to avoid corruption if you live in the society which is full of corruption.

Imagery is also seen when the writer says: ‘’ A different thing the public bath made for purification that is not offensive.Here there is only the stale soapsuds merging in grainy rotten dirt from everybody’s scums a reminder of armpits full of yellowed hair dripping sweat down arms raised casually in places of public intimacy (pg 41).
This give an image of police institution which is full of corrupt policemn.This gives the message that most of the policemen who are supposed to fight against corruption engage in corruption.Therefore it is not good for the police to involve in corruption.Police should stop involving in corruption.

Imagery is also seen when the writer says: (pg 36).’’….The voice of the suited man had something inexpected about it,like the fishermen’s voice with the sand and the salt hoarsening it forcing itself into unaccustomed English rhythm;Why was this necessary?A very Ghananian voice…….’’.

This give an image of a person who has been influence by the western culture. This shows that most of African leaders have been influenced by the western culture especially in terms of language.This gives the message that the leaders should value their culture instead of having colonial mentality.

Imagery is also seen when the writer says. (pg 63).’’…..It was the picture of something the caption called an oldman child.It had been born with all the features of a human baby but within seven years it had completed the cycle from baby hood to infancy to youth to maturity and old age and in its sevent year it had died a natural dealth…………..’’.

This gives an image of the country of Ghana which was the first country to get independence in Africa but within a very short period it became the most corrupt country in the world and its government was overthrown.This gives the message that corruption is not good because it can make the government to be overthrown.

Imagery is also seen when the writer says;(pg 182). ’’……..the policeman who had spoken raised his right hand and in a slow gesture pointed to his teeth saying Even kola nuts can say thanks………….’’.

This gives an image of bribe and corruption and shows most of policemen are corrupt ,they involve in corruption instead of fighting against it..This gives message that corruption makes laws not to function.Police should therefore fight against corruption so as to keep and maintain justice in the society.

Imagery is also seen when the writer says: (pg154), ’’the net has been made in the special Ghanian way that allows the really big corrupt people to pass through it .A net to catch on small,dispensable fellows trying to attain the gleam……………’’.This gives the image of laws which are made so as to protect the corrupt people.This gives the messge that laws should not be made to protect the people of high class.Laws should be for all people regardless of classes.

THE USE OF LANGUAGE AS A TECHNIQUE

Language has been used by Ayi kwei Armahto deliver the message

The use of symbolic language

Ayi kwei Armah has used symbol such as decayed bus so as to symbolize the decayed country of Ghana.This shows that the country of Ghana is completely decayed because it is full of evils such as corruption.This makes the country of Ghana to be overthrown.This gives the message that corruption is not good because it makes the government to be overthrown.

The use of metaphorical language:This is seen when the writer say : ’’……The visitor’s mouth was a wolf shape and when he spoke the reason appeared ………..‘’.This has been used to show how the business people are exploitative and corrupt.They involve corruption in their business.A good example is Amankwa the timber contractor who tries to bribe the man so as to get wago to transport his timber.

Metaphorical language

Metaphorical language is also seen when Oyo calls her husband chichidodo :’’……..you are chichido itself………………..’’ pg (pg 44).This has been used to show how some people especially a man are hypocritical..They pretend to hate corruption while they like and eat things obtained from corruption.Thisgives the message that it is difficult to avoid corruption if you live in the society which is full of corruption.

The use of ironic language.

This is seen in the campaign to rid the town of its filth. The government provides money so as to be used to buy boxes which will be used as containers for waste products.Howevr, contrary to this ,few and little boxes are bought and they are placed at strategic points not to be used as containers for waste products but as shining examples of cleanliness. At the end those few boxes are used effectively become full. People continue to use them until the whole place change to be the dumping place. Therefore the campaign to keep the country clean changes to be the campaign to keep the city dirt. This has been used to show how most African leaders are corrupt, hypocrite and exploitative. Many political leaders pretend to be busy implementing the government plans such as to build roads, prevent AIDS and alleviate poverty while they are only interested with the money that is provided in those projects so as tobe misused. This gives the message that corruption is the source of underdevelopment.

Ironic language: Ironic language has also been used in the campaign to end corruption. IN this campaign to end up corruption the net has been designed in Ghananian way. That it catches small corrupt people leaving the big corrupt people to pass through it.This has been used to show how the political leaders are hypocritical since they pretend to fight against corruption while the leaders themselves involve in corruption.This gives the message that it is difficult to end up corruption in Africa because the leaders who are supposed to fight against corruption are the one who engage in it.

The use of smile

Ayi kwei Armah has used simile so as to communicate some thing to his society and the world at large. Simile is used when Oyo compares life with roads.This can be seen the man narrates; ’’Teacher my wife explained to me step by step that life was like a lot of roads long and,short roads,wide and narrow,steep and levl,all sorts of roads’’. This has been used to show that in life there different ways of making someone prosperous.These ways are legal and illegal ways.Therefore people should use different ways so as to succeed in life.Thes ways can be like illegal ways such as corruption or legal ways such as working hard.

Similes has been used when the writer compares girls like tiger nuts as he says: ’’These Holly child girls !Achimota too! He is craking them like tiger nuts’’ pg 110. This show that most of rich people are moral decayed . They use their money so as to make love with small girls.This gives the message that money is the source of moral decay in most of African societies.

The use of abuseive language

This is seen when the bus conductor insults the man;’’……..You bloody fucking! So of bitch…….’’. This has been used to show how most of African Leaders are mora decayed. Morals and good manner have gone down in most of African countries for both the leaders and normal people.This gives the message that Africans have to stuggle so as to preserve morals in the societies because moral decay is the source of evils in most African societies.

The use of Biblical language

This is seen when the writer says:’’…..The last shal be the first.In deed it is even so…..’’ (pg 104).This gives the message that people should not easly despair in life but they have to struggle so as to get better life.

The use of proverbs

Proverbs is short fixed wise saying offering serious advice and warning.

Proverb has been used in oage 145 as the writer says: ’’…..Was there not some proverb that said the green fruit was healthy but healthy for its brief self ……..?
‘’’…..That the only new life there ever comes from seeds feeding on their own rotten fruit……?
‘’’…….What then was the fruit that refused to lose its acid and its greenness……?
‘’’………What monstrous fruit was it that could find the end of its life in the struggle against sweetness and corruption……..?.

This has been used to show how corruption is inevitable in the society which is full of corruption.That you can not get success without soiling your hands .People who struggle to avoid corruption are seen as abornormal, unnatural and very wicked.Such people like the man end up living poor life

Proverbs is also seen when Joseph koomson tells the boatmn (pg 174); ’’You used to repeat a certain proverb……….when the bull grazes the egret also eats……’’.
This has been used to used to show how the leaders expect to get help from the workers whom they used to favour when they were in power .Joseph koomson whose government has been overthrown wants the boatman to help him to escape by using the boat because he used to favour him.

Satire.

Satire refers to a humorous statement that is used to criticize immoral behavior which exists in the society. Satire can also be defined as a literary devices or expressions whose general aim is to ridicule ideas,people or institution in an amusing manner.

Satire in this novel is seen when the man laughed siftly and said ; ’’……..Yes we shali be rolling in fish……..’’ pg (pg 139). This has been used to satirize the ignorance of his wife and mother in law who do not understand that by cooperating with Joseph Koomson who is corrupt they will be exploited since he promises to give them fish instead of sharing the profit obtained from fishing boat’s business.

Sarcasm

Sarcasm refers to the use of bitter or wounding especially ironic remarks. Sarcasm is seen through the mother in law who regard the man’s sons as an orphan while his father is and mother are still living as she says (pg 123): ’’…….You must know you have no body,you are an orphan,a complete orphan……….’’.This has been used to reveal the theme of humiliation in the family and in the society. poverty makes the man to be oppressed and humiliated by his mother in- law since she regards the man as a useless person because he has failed to buy shoes for his son.

Hyperbole

Hyperbole refers to an exaggerated statement not meant to be taken itself.This means overstatement or exaggeration of facts.Hyperbole is seen when the writer says: (pg 27);’’…… the visitors mouth was a wolf shape and when he spoke the reason appeared.Nephews, they called these teeth which come in rows,a second and even a third set pushing impatiently out against the first….’’.This has been used to reveal corruption which is done by most of the business people.This shows that most of business people use corruption in their business.Amankwa who is the timber contractor attempts to bribe the man so that he gets wagons to transport his timber which is rotting in the forest.

Euphemism

Euphemism refer to a mild or indirect word or expression substituted for one considered to be too hars or blunt when referring to something unpleasant or embarrassing.

Euphemism is seen when the writer says (pg 98); ’’……… The man put out his hand and touched the body in between the thigh, just below the genitals……..’’and the long line of scar took the man’s mind completely away from any thought of joy……’’.

This reveals the problems which women face during birth giving to children.They are sometimes forced to bear children by using operation which makes them to remain with scars in the female organs’

The use of flash back as a technique.

Flashback is the technique in which the writer sends back his readers so as to reveal the hidden thing.

Flashback is seen when Koomson when he was a Railway man and the docker at the harbor.He was liked by other dpckers at the harbor.This has been used to show the leaders such as Joseph Koomson were good before getting power but they changed after getting power and became the most corrupt.This shows how power makes leaders to be corrupt.This gives the message that the leaders should stop betraying their people by involving themselves in corruption immediately after getting their power.

Flashback is also seen during colinalism Africans were exploited ,humiliated,oppressed and discriminated by colonialism.This iis seen when KofiBilly whose leg was cut by the machine was dismissed from his job and was not cpmpersated.This shows how colonialis was oppressive and exploitative.This gives the message that people should fight against colonialism because it is oppressive and exploitative.

Flashback has also been used to show the type of life which Africans lived during colonialism.Most of Africans lived poor life which made them fail to get their basic needs such as food.The children were starving for hunger.this make them to pick all unready mangoes so as to satisfy their HUNGER AND DESIRES.Stones flying upward and arcing down,bringing not the wanted fruit but entire bunches of unready mangoes.This reveals poverty which existed during colonialism and shows how colonialism made Africans to live poor life while the colonialists were enjoying the National rresources and wealth.

Flsashback is also seen when the man and Oyo made love before marriage and Oyo got pregnancy .This made the man to be forced to Marry Oyo.This can be proved when the writer says 9pg 117);
’’……….. Oyo’s pregnancy had not pleased him ,but he could remember clearly now now that the anguish he had expressed when her parents had come with their long story of their daughter ruined had not been entirely genuine……’’

This has been used to reveal immorality which exists in different societies.Immorality makes young people to make love before marriage and hence fail to continue with their university studies because of forced marriage.The man fails to continue with university studies after being forced to marry Oyo after impregnating her.

Flashback is also seen when the supervisor of space allocations was a bursar in one of Ghana national schools.He misused the school fund and caused students to write the letter of complaint to the ministry of education.The ministry of education dismissed all students who wrote the letter of complain which resulted to the student’s riot causing the school to be closed.This has been used to reveal corruption which is done by the people who hold posts in the government.These corrupt people are protected by the leaders while those who reveal evils and fight for their rights are oppressed and humiliated by the system (pg 109).

The use of dialogue techniques.

Dialogue refers to the conversation between two or more than two people.
Dialogue is seen between a man and Koomson together with Estellaas it is seen below:
‘’……..But will there be any profit in it?……Then Joseph Koomson replies ‘’…….In that case before you earn enough to pay the price of boat it will be twelve years……’’Then Estella adds by saying;’’ what matters is that there will be plenty of fish to eat .You know fish is foulyy expensive these days’’ (pg 138).This has been used to reveal exploitation which is done by the leaders to the poor people.Leaders such as Joseph Koomson use their positions and power to exploit poor people.This is seen when Joseph Koomson makes partnership with the man’s family so as to buy the fishing boats but refuses to share the profit which is obtained from those fishing boats.

There is also the dialogue between a man and a tax drive as it is revealed (pg 9); ‘’……Moron of a frog.If your time has come ,search for someone else to take yourworthless life……’’Then the man rplies;‘’…..I wasn’t looking .I’m sorry’’.

This has been used to reveal immorality which exist in most of African societies.Most of people inAfrica societies are moral decayed:they always use abusive language when communicate each other.

Foreshadowing

This is a technique in which the writer gives an advance hint about an event or events that will ocour in later in a story.Writers creates foreshadowing with descriptive words and events that often add an element of suspence to a story.

Foreshadowing in this novel is seen when the man predicts that if Oyo and her mother allows their names to be used in buying fishing boats,they are going to be fooled by Joseph Koomson.This is proved when the man tells the teacher in (pg 57)
,’’…Koomson is just going to fool them…….’’.

Tne man’s prediction becomes true when Joseph Koomson buys very expensive fishin boats by using Oyo’s name and decides to write the name of his daughter,[rincess instead of Oyo who signed the forms of loan.Worse enough,he refuses to share the profit which is obtained from those fishing boats and ends up giving them fish.This shows how he exploits them.

Foreshadowing is also seen when the teacher predicts that if the man allows his wife and his mother in law to co-operate with Joseph koomson they will just get fish.This is seen when the teacher tells the man: (pg 57). ’’……Excellent, Excellent .Man .Remember me when the fish come…..’’

The teacher’s prediction becomes true when the man and his family get fish from Joseph Koomson’s fishing boats.This has been used to reveal exploitation done by the leaders to the poor people.Most of Leaders use their positions to exploit poor people.This is revealed when Joseph Koomson’s boats using Oyo’s name but refuses to share the profit obtained from the business.

Characterization

Characterization means the use of character to reveal and create personalities.Ayi kwei Armah has moulded his characters in different ways so as to deliver his intended nessage to the society and the world at large.
The use of realistic character such as Joseph Koomson .This has been used to reveal the real behavior of most of the the African leaders who are corrupt.Those leaders use their power and positions so as to enrich themselves.A good example is Josep Koomson who uses the government fund to buy very expensive fishing boats while his people are suffering from poverty.

The use of unrealistic characters such as Rama Krishna and the teacher.This has been used to sho how people who struggle to avoid corruption are seen as wicked, abnormal and unnatural.Such people always end up living poor life.

The use of characters whose names relate with their titles or positions such as bursar .This has been used to show how people with with positions in the company or government use their positions to enrich themselves.A good example is a bursar who misuses the school fund and causes disturbances to students which makes school to be closed .The bursar is promoted to high positions and becomes the supervisor in space allocation.This shows how nepotism exists in most of African countries .people who make blunder in their positions are promoted instead of being demoted.

The use of character whose names relate with their countries.For example Zacharia Lagos.This has been used to show that corruption does not only exists in Ghana but also even in other countries such as Nigeria.Nigerians are are also as corrupt as Ghananian.

The use of characters whose names have origns such as Koffi Billy.This has been used to show that in any economic integration (coopreration) between African and Europe , Ther is exploitation.Africans are exploited and even oppressed by the Europeans.

The use of a man.

This has been used to show how most of Africans are just watchers and ignorant. That even if they know the evils done by the leaders , they can not take strong ,measure against them because they don’t know the tricks used by those leaders to exploit them

The use of female characters such as Oyo and Estella.They have been used to reflect the real behavior of most of women who like to live luxurious and expensive life.Such women have also been influenced by the western cultre.

Female characters such as the young juice vigina and the holly child girls.Thes have been used to show how women are used as tools of entertainment and enjoyment.

The use of short story as a technique

This is seen when Joseph Koomson narrates the story about Proffessor who was giving speech to the ministers,parliamentarians and part activists.
” …..one day they brought a man to give the ministers and the parliamentarians and party activist a lecture…….They say they he was telling us how to make the country rich……..I have tried to find out what he really said,but it seems I wasn’t the only one who slept thatday.Iwoke up when I heard some clapping.The others also woke up…….’’.

This has been used to show how most of the leaders also are irresponsible. They used to sleep during important seminars or meetings. This makes the government to have poor and false treaties or contracts.

The use of songs as a techniques.

This is seen when the song is heard from the teacher’s radio.
’’……..Those who are blessed with the power and the soaring swiftness of the eagle’’

‘’And have flown before
Let them go
I will travel slowly
And I too will arrive’’

This has been used to show how people who are blessed with power live better life while the majority of people are starving .People should continue struggling to improve their life by using legal ways one day they can win. This gives the message that people should not despair in life.They should continue struggling so as to change the situation which is full of corruption.

Point of view

This the angle through which the story is narrated .In this novel there is the use of third person singular so as to show that the writer was at a very far distance from the society.Therefore,he has written something that he has not experienced in his life.