“You can take the man out of polygamy, but you can’t take polygamy out of the man. Monogamy? No thanks, we’ll pass.” – a quote by Tiger Rifkin
In the grand landscape of literature where tales are often woven around love, betrayal, and intrigue, Peace Adzo Medie presents us with “His Only Wife”, a Cinderella story set in Ghana, but with a twist of lemon. The book offers a narrative that leaves readers spinning like a top, grinning widely, and scratching their heads in wonderment.
The Unseen Wedding
The book opens with protagonist Afi Tekple marrying wealthy Elikem Ganyo in Ghana. However, the groom is absent and sends a proxy to the wedding instead. This absurd premise sets the satirical tone.
Riches to Rags to Riches
Afi moves into a luxurious Accra apartment provided by her husband’s family. She attends fashion design school, living a privileged yet lonely new life. Meanwhile, her husband, Elikem, spends time with his Liberian mistress and their daughter.
The Twists and Turns
When Afi finally meets Elikem, she falls for him despite his unwillingness to leave his mistress. This ironic love triangle highlights the complex polygamy practices in Ghana.
Tiger’s Roar
In “His Only Wife”, Medie serves a dish of a reality check with a side of sarcasm. Afi’s story is not just another Cinderella tale; it’s a critique of the unofficial polygamy practice in Ghana, the moral contracts women are locked into without legal protection or reciprocal opportunities, and how these uphold patriarchal structures. It is also a tale of growth as Afi finds her voice, a blend of insecurity, wisdom, and dignity, in the fast-changing world of Accra.
In conclusion, if you’re expecting a “happily ever after”, you may want to sit down for this. The book is a roller coaster of emotions, a blend of humour and critique, and a mirror reflecting a society’s contrast between tradition and modernity. It’s an enchanting Cinderella story with no glass slipper in sight but with a lot of grit, determination, and an unyielding spirit.
“His Only Wife” is a symphony of satire, with a tune you can’t help but hum along to. So, buckle up, dear readers, for a ride into the heart of Ghana, and remember to always keep your hands and feet inside the vehicle.
Now what do you think?
- What are your thoughts on the portrayal of polygamy practices and patriarchal structures in the Ghanaian society as depicted in “His Only Wife”? Do you see any parallels with societal norms in your own culture?
- Do you believe that books like “His Only Wife” play an important role in shedding light on cultural practices and challenging traditional gender roles? Share your views on how literature can be a powerful tool for social commentary and change.
- The blog article compares the protagonist Afi’s journey to a roller coaster ride. Have you ever read a book that took you on an emotional roller coaster? Share your favorite books with unexpected twists and turns that left you captivated.