SECTION A: AFRICAN PROSE
Examine Nii’s rejection of Linda’s advances
Explanation
Examining Nii Tackie's Rejection of Linda's Advances in Unexpected Joy at Dawn
As the curfew approaches, Nii finds refuge in Linda’s house. They engage in conversation, during which Linda expresses her desire to travel to Lagos with him. She claims that her husband is in London and that she has been lonely for the past six years. Linda tries to coax Nii into accepting her proposition by highlighting that he is a young man in need of someone to help him find himself again. However, Nii remains indifferent to her advances, refusing to acknowledge her offer.
Desperate to persuade him, Linda physically throws herself at Nii. However, he does not reciprocate her gestures. Instead, he orders her to open the door. Linda, believing she has another chance, hesitates and assumes he has given in to temptation when she hears the curfew alarm. However, Nii firmly rejects her, pushes her away and escapes into the night despite the risks.
Nii’s rejection of Linda’s advances demonstrates his unwavering loyalty to his wife. Despite Linda’s emotional and physical attempts to seduce him, he does not succumb. His actions portray him as a man of principle who values his marriage and moral integrity over momentary pleasure. Additionally, his rejection reinforces his sense of responsibility, as he understands the possible consequences of engaging in an affair, especially in such dire circumstances.
Moreover, Linda’s advances reflect the theme of desperation. Her willingness to use seduction as a tool to convince Nii to take her to Lagos highlights the extent to which some Ghanaians were eager to leave the country. Her reaction to the curfew alarm also suggests that she may have staged the timing to ensure Nii had no other option but to stay with her. However, Nii’s strong will and commitment to his values enable him to resist her manipulation.
Ultimately, this incident serves to reinforce Nii’s character as a man who prioritizes his dignity and sense of duty, even when faced with temptation. His rejection of Linda’s advances mirrors his broader struggle to navigate moral and ethical dilemmas throughout the novel.