MASENO UNIVERSITY

SCHOOL OF EDUCATION

DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION ENGLISH AND LITERATURE

ALI 103: INTRODUCTION TO EAST AFRICAN LITERATURE

CAT 1

DATE OF SUBMISSION:24TH OCTOBER 2023

ASSIGNMENT ISSUED BY DR PAMELA ODHACHA

MEMBERS OF THE GROUP

1.Sharles Boyani-EAR/00009/023

2.Venic nyamboto ondari-EAR/0034/023

3.Quirine sitati-EAR/00213/023

4.Larry Blessings-EAR/00234/023

5.Divinah Moraa-EAR/00615/023

6.Calmax Okinyi -EAR/00667/023

7.Phelix okumu odero-EAR/00751/023

8.Joyline jepkorir- EAR/00801/023

9.Risper nyanchama morang’a-EAR/00925/023

10.Owuor Milton Ochieng-ESN/00139/022

Ngugi wa Thiong'o's short story "A Meeting in the Dark" is a compelling

narrative that delves into the complex experiences of Eastern Africa,
particularly Kenya, through the perspective of its characters and their
cultural, social, and political contexts. The story is set against the
backdrop of a missionary school in colonial Kenya and provides insights
into the clash between indigenous African traditions and Western
influences. While "A Meeting in the Dark" is a work of fiction, it
effectively reflects the historical and sociocultural aspects of Eastern
Africa, making it a valuable piece for discussing the region's
experiences.

1. Colonialism and Cultural Clash: The story portrays the era of

colonialism in Eastern Africa, where British missionaries played a
significant role in shaping the local culture. The central character, John,
represents the conflict between traditional African values and the
imposition of Western values and religion. John's struggle with his
African identity and his desire to fit into the Westernized society serves
as a metaphor for the broader cultural clash in the region.

2. Religious Conversion and Identity: The story explores the theme of

religious conversion, highlighting how many Africans were forced or
coerced into adopting Christianity. John's decision to change his name
to Johannes and embrace Christianity symbolizes the erosion of
traditional African identities under the influence of colonial powers.

3. Resistance and Rebellion: "A Meeting in the Dark" hints at the

simmering undercurrents of resistance among Eastern Africans. John's
secret meeting with Wamuhu, an act forbidden by the school's rules
and the Christian faith, represents a form of rebellion against the
imposed norms. This reflects the broader resistance against colonial
rule and the desire to reclaim indigenous cultures.

4. Patriarchy and Gender Dynamics: The story also touches on gender

dynamics, particularly the power imbalances between men and women
in Eastern African society. John's relationship with Wamuhu is shrouded
in secrecy due to societal norms and his father's expectations. This
highlights the patriarchal structures prevalent in the region during the
colonial era.

5. Language and Communication: Ngugi wa Thiong'o's work is known

for addressing the importance of native languages and their role in
preserving cultural identity. While "A Meeting in the Dark" is primarily
in English, it reflects the tension between the English language and
native African languages as a means of communication and expression.

6. Education and Aspiration: The missionary school in the story

represents the aspirations of many African families for better education
and socioeconomic mobility. This reflects the historical efforts to access
Western-style education to improve one's prospects in Eastern Africa.
7Social hierarchies the short story also enlightens of the social
hierarchies and racial prejudices that were preverlent in East Africa
during the colonial rule era, the protagonist relationship is one of the
married actions by societal expectation and the discrimination faced by
mixed-race couples

In summary, "A Meeting in the Dark" by Ngugi was Thiong'o provides a

microcosm of the Eastern African experience during the colonial era,
where individuals like John grapple with identity, cultural conflict, and
the erosion of traditional values under the influence of Western
colonialism. The story captures the struggles and complexities of the
region's history, making it a significant piece of Eastern African literature
that reflects the broader experiences of the time.