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| Author | Chinua Achebe |
|---|---|
| Original title | Girls at War and Other Stories |
| Language | English |
| Genre | Fiction |
| Publisher | Penguin Publishing Group |
Publication date | 1972 |
| Publication place | Nigeria |
| ISBN | 0385418965 |
"Girls at War" is a 1972 short story by Chinua Achebe. The narrative focuses on the essence of survival amidst the uncertainties of war. Through the protagonist, Reginald Nwankwo, the story unfolds the intricacies of determination, resilience, and the human spirit's quest for survival.[1] Encountering a young woman Gladys, three times in different circumstances, Reginald's journey becomes a metaphor for life's unpredictable paths. In their initial encounter, he offers advice to Gladys, advocating for education and discouraging involvement in the militia, foreseeing the dangers it holds for women.[2]
However, fate brings them together again at a militia checkpoint where Reginald discovers Gladys has joined the militia. Despite his initial reservations, he admires her determination to survive and thrive in the midst of adversity. Her transformation from a young girl to a confident woman highlights the resilience bred by necessity during wartime. As the war continues to ravage their lives, Reginald's hostility towards it grows, fueled by the disruption it brings to his daily life. Through his experiences and encounters with Gladys, "Girls at War" poignantly illustrates the enduring human spirit's ability to adapt, endure, and find moments of beauty amidst the chaos of conflict.[3]
- ^ Achebe, Chinua (1 August 1991). Girls at War and Other Stories (Reprint ed.). New York: Penguin Publishing Group. ISBN 978-0-385-41896-6.
- ^ Achebe, Chinua (1972). Girls at War and Other Stories. Pearson Education. ISBN 978-0-435-90100-4.
- ^ Darkowaa (11 November 2014). "Girls at War and Other Stories by Chinua Achebe". African Book Addict!. Retrieved 22 April 2024.