The Joys of Motherhood

Nnaife and Nnu Ego host a celebration to mark the naming of their second baby, Adim, who is now six weeks old. Despite Nnaife’s meager income, they spend a lot on drink and clothing for the occasion. Nnu Ego notices that Nnaife is more cynical regarding the British colonists than he was before his trip.

A month later, Oshia begins to attend a local school hosted by Methodist missionaries. Three months after Nnaife’s return, he remains unemployed and spends most of his time drinking or playing the guitar.

One day, several Ibo men, including Ubani and Nwakusor, visit Nnaife and inform him that his elder brother died. According to tradition, this means that Nnaife is now responsible for his brother’s wives and children. Ubani also offers to arrange for Nnaife to take a job cutting grass along the railway, and Nnaife accepts. Nnaife does not particularly enjoy his new job, but his work does earn Nnu Ego’s respect.

Adaku, one of Nnaife’s brother’s wives, comes to live with them, accompanied by her four-year-old daughter, Dumbi. Nnu Ego feels threatened by Adaku’s youthful appearance and calm manner. Nnaife, however, is delighted and shows off for Adaku, which annoys Nnu Ego.