Superfluous Words: Ecological and Cultural Resilience in Things Fall Apart

Abstract

The paper argues that Achebe's novel Things Fall Apart provides a template for survival, not only in cultural, but also in ecological terms. Drawing on the theories of ecologist Joseph Meeker and feminist philosopher Elizabeth Grosz, the paper explores the relevance of theories of ecology and evolution to postcolonial literature and goes on to read Things Fall Apart through C.S. Holling's resilience theory. In particular, I suggest that resilience theory's emphasis on interdependence, adaptability and self-organization finds an echo both in Achebe's novel, and in his work as a journalist, critic and activist, to promote a vibrant arts community in Nigeria and throughout the postcolonial world.