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Exploring Then She Said It: A Masterpiece of Igbo Spirituality and Feminist Thought

Dan Bell

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By Tess Onwueme

Then She Said It is a compelling novel by Nigerian author Tess Onwueme that delves into the intricate tapestry of Igbo spirituality, feminist perspectives, and the resilience of women in the face of oppression. Set in the pre-colonial and colonial periods of Nigeria, the novel weaves a rich narrative that explores the complex relationship between tradition and modernity, the power of female voices, and the enduring bonds that sustain communities.

THEN SHE SAID IT - by Tess Onwueme

by Nisa Santiago

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	433 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	128 pages

Igbo Spirituality and the Feminine Divine

At the heart of Then She Said It lies the profound connection between Igbo spirituality and the feminine divine. Through the character of Nneoma, the novel celebrates the transformative power of women and their ability to embody the sacred. Nneoma's visions and prophetic utterances serve as a conduit for the voice of the divine, guiding her community through turbulent times and inspiring a profound sense of hope and liberation.

“She was the one who saw the future and told us what to do. She was the one who spoke for the ancestors and for the gods. She was the one who healed the sick and cleansed the land.”

Feminist Perspectives and Women's Resilience

Then She Said It is also a powerful exploration of feminist perspectives and the resilience of women in the face of oppression. The novel portrays the diverse experiences of women in pre-colonial and colonial Nigeria, from the traditional roles of wives and mothers to the challenges of resisting patriarchal norms and colonial authority. Through the stories of characters like Ihuoma and Mgbeke, Onwueme sheds light on the strength, resilience, and resourcefulness of women in a society that often marginalized their voices.

“Women were the backbone of the community, the ones who held it together. They were the ones who worked the fields, raised the children, and kept the traditions alive.”

Tradition and Modernity: A Complex Interplay

The novel also explores the complex interplay between tradition and modernity in Igbo society. As colonial forces penetrate the community, the traditional ways of life are challenged and transformed. Onwueme deftly captures the tensions and contradictions that arise as the community navigates the changes brought by Western education, Christianity, and colonial rule.

Then She Said It offers a nuanced and insightful portrayal of the ways in which tradition and modernity intersect, shape, and sometimes clash within the Igbo community. The novel ultimately celebrates the enduring power of cultural identity and the resilience of a people who have faced both oppression and adaptation.

Then She Said It is a captivating and thought-provoking work that offers a rich exploration of Igbo spirituality, feminist perspectives, and the resilience of women in the face of oppression. Through its vibrant characters, lyrical prose, and profound insights, the novel invites readers to engage with the multifaceted complexities of African history, culture, and identity. Then She Said It is a testament to Tess Onwueme's exceptional storytelling ability and an essential read for anyone interested in African literature, feminist thought, or the enduring power of spirituality.