The thing around your neck summary  by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Cell one

“Cell One” is the opening story of the collection and is narrated by a young Nigerian man whose name is not mentioned. The story is set in Nigeria and revolves around the experiences of the narrator and his family.

The story begins with the narrator reminiscing about his childhood and his elder sister, Nnamabia, who was the brightest and most favored in the family. Despite her intelligence, she gets involved with a group of university students who steal cell phones and other valuables. Nnamabia eventually lands in prison after her friends frame her for their crimes.

The narrator and his family are devastated by Nnamabia’s arrest, and they become entangled in the corrupt and unjust Nigerian prison system. The narrator describes the harsh realities of the prison, where inmates are beaten, tortured, and subjected to terrible conditions. He also reflects on the systemic corruption that allows the police and prison authorities to extort money from the families of prisoners.

Nnamabia’s imprisonment takes a toll on the family, leading to her father’s financial ruin and her mother’s emotional breakdown. The narrator becomes increasingly disillusioned with the justice system as he witnesses the injustice and brutality within the prison.

Nnamabia’s time in prison changes her as well. She becomes more detached and hardened, leading to a strained relationship with her family. The narrator eventually manages to secure her release through a combination of bribes and connections, but the experience leaves a permanent scar on their lives.

“Cell One” explores themes of injustice, corruption, and the harsh realities of the Nigerian legal system. It highlights the stark contrast between the promise of a bright future that education offers and the grim, oppressive conditions within the country’s prisons. The story serves as a powerful critique of the Nigerian society’s failures, particularly in its legal and penal systems, and the impact of corruption on the lives of ordinary people.

Imitation

“Imitation” is a story that explores the complexities of identity and cultural adaptation as experienced by a young Nigerian woman named Nkem.

The story opens with Nkem, who hails from Nigeria, accompanying her husband, Obiora, to the United States. Obiora had previously been studying in America, and they are now reunited after several years of a long-distance relationship. Nkem’s anticipation of the reunion is mixed with uncertainty about her new life in the United States.

Nkem quickly realizes that living in the United States presents a stark contrast to her life in Nigeria. She encounters numerous cultural differences and challenges. She finds the American lifestyle fast-paced and the people, including Obiora’s American friends, somewhat distant. Nkem is also struck by the prevalence of consumerism and the relative lack of connection with nature.

To adapt to her new surroundings, Nkem begins to imitate the American way of life. She changes her wardrobe, adopts American accents, and tries to mimic the behaviors of American women, all in an effort to fit in. However, these imitations feel forced and inauthentic, and she is often unsure of her own identity in the process.

Nkem also struggles with feelings of isolation and homesickness. She longs for her family in Nigeria and misses the warmth and community she used to have. This isolation affects her mental and emotional well-being, and she begins to feel like a stranger in a foreign land.

The story explores the tension between adapting to a new culture and preserving one’s own identity. Nkem’s imitation of American culture is a coping mechanism, but it ultimately makes her feel disconnected from her true self. The story raises questions about the complexities of identity, the challenges faced by immigrants, and the emotional toll of trying to fit into a foreign culture while longing for one’s homeland.

“Imitation” offers a poignant reflection on the immigrant experience, the search for identity in a new environment, and the emotional struggles that can accompany such a transition. It highlights the universal theme of how individuals navigate cultural changes and maintain a sense of self in a foreign setting.

A Private Experience

“A Private Experience” is a poignant and thought-provoking story that revolves around two women from different religious and ethnic backgrounds in Nigeria, brought together during a period of intense violence and civil unrest.

The story begins with the protagonist, Chika, a young Igbo woman who is a pharmacy student, witnessing the eruption of a violent riot in the city. She is desperately seeking safety and refuge. Chika manages to find her way to a small shop, where she meets a Hausa Muslim woman named Nuwar, who is the shop’s owner.

Despite their initial fear and distrust, the two women are forced to share the confined space of the shop as the violence outside intensifies. They represent two different worlds, with Chika being a Christian and Nuwar being a Muslim, and they both carry their cultural and religious biases. Chika is initially wary of Nuwar’s presence due to the longstanding ethnic and religious tensions between their communities.

As they stay together in the shop, the women gradually begin to open up to each other. Chika shares stories of her family, particularly her brother who was killed in the violence, while Nuwar reveals her own experiences and losses. They discuss their faith and their personal beliefs, finding common ground in their experiences of grief, loss, and fear.

During their time together, Chika and Nuwar’s humanity and shared vulnerability become more apparent than their religious or ethnic differences. They find solace in each other’s company and, for a brief moment, create a “private experience” that transcends the violence and hatred outside.

The story ends with a glimmer of hope as the violence subsides, and they decide to leave the shop together. They acknowledge that the brief connection they formed was a rare and “private experience” that they will cherish, despite the differences that may still exist between their communities.

“A Private Experience” highlights the universality of human suffering and the power of empathy to bridge divides. It underscores the idea that beneath the surface of our differences, there are shared emotions and experiences that connect us as human beings. The story serves as a moving exploration of how individuals can find common ground and understanding even in the most challenging and divisive circumstances.

 

Ghosts

“Ghosts” is a story that delves into the experiences of a young Nigerian woman, Grace, who is working as a babysitter and housekeeper in the United States. Grace’s story reflects the complexities of being an immigrant and the impact of cultural and class differences on her life.

Grace is from a middle-class Nigerian family and has come to America to work for an affluent Nigerian couple, Mr. and Mrs. Nwankwo, who have two young children. The Nwankwo family is living in the United States and represents a privileged class of Nigerians who have achieved success abroad. They reside in a comfortable suburban home with a maid and a gardener, living a lifestyle that is quite different from what Grace had known in Nigeria.

The story explores Grace’s experiences in her role as a babysitter and housekeeper. She is tasked with caring for the Nwankwo children, but her relationship with the family is complicated. She is expected to adapt to American customs and parenting practices that differ from what she is familiar with. Grace observes the children’s behavior and the dynamics within the household, including the complexities of the Nwankwo’s marriage.

As Grace navigates her role, she also grapples with her sense of identity and belonging. She feels like an outsider in both American and Nigerian cultures. Grace is aware of the socioeconomic disparities between her and the Nwankwo family, which are highlighted by the material possessions and opportunities they have. The story emphasizes the differences in opportunities and privileges that exist within the Nigerian diaspora, as well as the isolation that Grace experiences.

Throughout the narrative, Grace reflects on her dreams and aspirations, as well as the limitations and constraints she faces as an immigrant. The story raises questions about the sacrifices that individuals make for economic opportunities and the emotional toll of leaving one’s home and culture behind.

In “Ghosts,” Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie paints a vivid picture of the challenges and complexities faced by immigrants, particularly domestic workers, who often find themselves in a position of invisibility and powerlessness. The story underscores the importance of acknowledging the human experiences and individual stories that may be concealed behind the roles and social positions people occupy.

On Monday of Last Week

“On Monday of Last Week” follows the experiences of Kamara, a young Nigerian woman who has come to the United States as a nanny for a mixed-race couple, Neil and Tracy.

Kamara arrives in America with a sense of anticipation and eagerness to embrace the opportunities the country has to offer. She is the latest in a series of nannies hired by the couple to take care of their young son, Josh, and to help with housekeeping. Kamara is intrigued by Neil and Tracy’s relationship, which appears unconventional to her. She notices that they don’t fit the conventional gender roles she’s accustomed to.

As Kamara interacts with the family, she becomes particularly attached to Josh. She starts to feel a sense of responsibility and affection for him, and he, in turn, becomes attached to her. Kamara’s interactions with Josh make her question her own identity and her role as a mother. She reflects on the dynamics between the child, the parents, and herself, as well as her own longing for a child of her own.

Kamara also encounters other characters in the story, such as Mrs. Di Silva, who engages in abstract art and questions Kamara’s understanding of art and beauty. This further challenges Kamara’s perceptions of the world around her.

The story explores the theme of cultural and gender identity, as Kamara tries to reconcile her Nigerian upbringing with the different cultural and gender dynamics she encounters in the United States. Her journey is a reflection of the broader immigrant experience, as she grapples with adapting to a new culture while trying to retain her sense of self and her understanding of her place in the world.

In “On Monday of Last Week,” Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie presents a compelling narrative that addresses themes of cultural adaptation, identity, and the complexities of human relationships. The story captures the nuanced experiences of immigrants and the evolving dynamics of family, motherhood, and art in a multicultural society.

Jumping Monkey Hil

“Jumping Monkey Hill” is a story that revolves around the experiences of a young African writer named Ujunwa, who participates in a writers’ workshop in Cape Town, South Africa. The story delves into issues of cultural representation, power dynamics, and the challenges faced by African writers in dealing with Western literary gatekeepers.

The story is set at a writers’ retreat organized by Edward, a well-established British writer who is known for his success in the literary world. Ujunwa is among the aspiring African writers who are invited to attend the workshop, and they have high hopes for the event. However, the dynamics within the workshop quickly become complex.

Edward is critical of the African writers’ work, suggesting that their stories are not “African enough” and urging them to focus on the traditional and exotic aspects of their culture. He pushes them to tell stories that conform to Western stereotypes of Africa, which frustrates the writers, including Ujunwa.

The tension escalates as the writers feel compelled to satisfy Edward’s expectations, leading to disputes over the content and authenticity of their stories. Ujunwa, in particular, is determined to maintain the integrity of her work and refuses to alter her story as Edward suggests.

The story unfolds as Ujunwa and the other writers engage in discussions and debates about their writing. They confront Edward’s patronizing attitude and challenge the notion that African literature should conform to Western expectations and preconceived notions. Ujunwa, in particular, asserts her artistic autonomy and refuses to compromise her vision for the sake of Western approval.

“Jumping Monkey Hill” is a powerful exploration of the complexities of the African writer’s experience in a literary world where Western expectations and gatekeepers can exert significant influence. It highlights the struggles of these writers to maintain their cultural integrity and individual voices while navigating the pressures of the Western literary establishment.

The story ultimately raises questions about the representation of Africa in literature, the power dynamics between African writers and Western gatekeepers, and the importance of authenticity and artistic autonomy in storytelling.

The Thing Around Your Neck

“The Thing Around Your Neck” is the title story of the collection and revolves around the experiences of a Nigerian woman named Akunna, who has recently moved to America to join her husband Obiora, an engineer working in the United States.

Akunna’s transition to life in the United States is marked by feelings of displacement, cultural disorientation, and homesickness. She struggles to adapt to the fast-paced and materialistic American way of life, which is in stark contrast to the slower, community-centered life she knew in Nigeria.

The story’s title is derived from the heavy, traditional Nigerian neckpiece that Akunna wears. The neckpiece serves as a symbol of her cultural identity, and she feels the weight of it both physically and metaphorically. It becomes a central motif throughout the narrative.

As Akunna navigates her new life, she feels the pressure to conform to American expectations and standards of beauty. She observes the attitudes of American women toward beauty and body image, which differ from those in Nigeria. Akunna’s struggle with body image and self-esteem reflects her experiences as an immigrant woman trying to reconcile her own cultural background with the American ideal of beauty.

Akunna’s relationship with her husband Obiora is also strained. She discovers that Obiora is having an affair with an American woman, and this revelation further complicates her adjustment to life in the United States.

As the story unfolds, Akunna grapples with the conflicting demands of her cultural identity, her desire to fit into American society, and her own sense of self-worth. She also reflects on her role as a wife, mother, and woman, and how these roles are shaped by cultural and societal expectations.

“The Thing Around Your Neck” explores the theme of cultural adaptation, personal identity, and the complexities of maintaining one’s cultural roots in a foreign land. It highlights the challenges faced by immigrants as they navigate the tension between cultural heritage and the pressures to assimilate into a new culture. The story underscores the idea that cultural identity can be both a source of strength and a burden, and it portrays the profound impact of migration on an individual’s sense of self.”The American Embassy” is a story that centers around the experiences of a Nigerian woman named Nkem, who is married to a Nigerian man, Obiora, with dreams of moving to the United States.

The American Embassy

Nkem has long aspired to move to the United States and build a better life for herself and her family. Her husband Obiora, an engineer, secures a visa interview at the U.S. embassy in Lagos, a crucial step toward fulfilling their American dream. Nkem accompanies him to the interview as a sign of moral support.

At the embassy, Nkem is initially apprehensive and anxious about the outcome of the interview, but she becomes increasingly frustrated and critical of the behavior of the other Nigerians in the waiting area. She observes how people are eager to flaunt their connections, exaggerate their stories, and engage in unethical practices to gain favor with the embassy officials.

Nkem’s perspective on the visa process and her fellow Nigerians reveals her own longing for a better life in America and her awareness of the extent to which many are willing to compromise their integrity for that opportunity. She becomes disillusioned by the desperation she observes around her.

In the end, Obiora is granted a visa, marking a significant milestone for their family. The story highlights the complexities and ethical dilemmas that many aspiring immigrants face when pursuing their dreams of moving to the United States. Nkem’s internal struggle reflects the tension between the desire for a better life and the moral compromises that individuals may feel compelled to make in the process.

“The American Embassy” serves as a critique of the immigration process and the ethical challenges that immigrants often encounter when seeking opportunities abroad. It also portrays the varied motivations and experiences of those who aspire to move to the United States, as well as the moral dilemmas and ethical questions that arise in the pursuit of the American dream.

The Shivering

“The Shivering” tells the story of a young Nigerian woman named Ujunwa, who is attending a conference in the United States. Ujunwa is an academic and a feminist, and the conference focuses on gender issues. She finds herself in the company of academics, activists, and researchers from various parts of the world.

The story explores Ujunwa’s experiences and observations as she interacts with the people at the conference. She is initially excited to be part of this global feminist community but quickly realizes that the dynamics within the group are complex. There are disagreements and tensions, reflecting differences in perspectives and priorities.

Ujunwa is also confronted with unwelcome advances from one of the male conference attendees, who assumes that her presence at the conference makes her available for a romantic relationship. She rebuffs his advances, but this encounter leaves her feeling uncomfortable and vulnerable.

Ujunwa’s observations and experiences at the conference lead her to reflect on the challenges faced by women in different parts of the world. She is particularly struck by the differences in the experiences of Western feminists and those from more patriarchal societies, like Nigeria. She also contemplates the varying ways in which women assert themselves and resist oppression in their respective contexts.

The story culminates in a conference panel discussion where Ujunwa is invited to speak. She addresses the complexities of global feminism, acknowledging the diversity of women’s experiences and the need for solidarity among women worldwide. Ujunwa emphasizes the importance of understanding the unique challenges that women face in their specific cultural and social contexts.

“The Shivering” serves as a commentary on the complexities and diversities within the feminist movement, particularly the tensions that can arise when women from different backgrounds and cultures come together. It underscores the need for understanding and empathy across these differences, as well as the importance of recognizing the unique struggles that women face in various parts of the world. The story provides insight into the evolving dynamics of feminism and the challenges of global solidarity among women.

The Arrangers of Marriage

“The Arrangers of Marriage” focuses on the life of Chinaza, a young Nigerian woman who has moved to the United States for her arranged marriage to a Nigerian man named Bartholomew. The story explores themes of cultural expectations, independence, and the challenges faced by immigrants in navigating cultural differences.

Chinaza comes from a traditional Nigerian family and has reluctantly agreed to the arranged marriage, hoping to please her parents and adhere to cultural norms. She is married to Bartholomew, who is well-established in the United States. However, the marriage is not what she had expected.

Chinaza finds herself feeling disconnected from her husband, who is preoccupied with his job and busy social life. She becomes increasingly lonely and isolated in her new surroundings, and she longs for a deeper emotional connection in her marriage.

As Chinaza interacts with the Nigerian expatriate community in the United States, she becomes aware of the complexities of marriage and the challenges faced by many immigrant women. She meets other Nigerian women who, like her, have sacrificed their independence and dreams for the sake of their husbands and families. Chinaza is particularly drawn to Nia, who is pursuing a graduate degree and seems to have a more independent and fulfilling life.

The story unfolds as Chinaza grapples with her sense of identity and the expectations placed on her as a Nigerian wife. She is torn between her cultural responsibilities and her desire for personal fulfillment and independence. As her frustration grows, she begins to question the choices she has made and the compromises she has accepted.

In “The Arrangers of Marriage,” Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie explores the complexities of arranged marriages and the impact of cultural expectations on the lives of immigrant women. The story portrays the internal struggle of Chinaza as she tries to reconcile her traditional upbringing with her longing for self-determination and fulfillment. It raises questions about the sacrifices and compromises that individuals make in the pursuit of cultural norms and family expectations, and the challenges of finding one’s own path in a foreign culture.

Tomorrow is Too Far

“Tomorrow is Too Far” follows the life of a Nigerian woman named Nkem, who has moved to the United States after her father’s death, leaving her family behind in Nigeria. The story explores themes of family, identity, longing, and the complexities of migration.

Nkem’s life in America is marked by a sense of disconnection from her family and homeland. She works as a nurse in the United States, where she is surrounded by other Nigerian expatriates. Despite the physical proximity of her fellow countrymen, Nkem feels a profound sense of isolation.

The story is narrated by Nkem’s brother, who remains in Nigeria. He provides insight into the family’s perspective and their feelings of abandonment as they await Nkem’s return. The family is particularly concerned about Nkem’s choice to stay in the United States, which they interpret as a rejection of her Nigerian identity and her role in the family.

As the narrative unfolds, it is revealed that Nkem’s relationship with her American boyfriend, Mark, is a source of tension. Her family is apprehensive about the influence he has on her and what they see as her changing values.

Nkem’s decision to remain in America and the growing distance between her and her family become more pronounced when she learns of her father’s death. She grapples with feelings of grief, guilt, and longing as she struggles to reconcile her desire for independence and self-determination with her family’s expectations.

The story portrays the challenges faced by immigrants who must balance the pursuit of their own aspirations with the cultural and familial expectations placed upon them. It also explores the complexities of maintaining a sense of identity and connection with one’s homeland while living in a foreign country. “Tomorrow is Too Far” offers a poignant reflection on the experiences of individuals who must navigate the tensions between their personal dreams and their responsibilities to their family and culture.

The Headstrong Historian

“The Headstrong Historian” follows the life of a young Nigerian girl named Nwamgba, who grows up in the southeastern part of Nigeria during a period of significant change and upheaval. The story explores themes of cultural transformation, gender roles, and the importance of preserving history and heritage.

Nwamgba is born into a traditional Igbo family, and her early years are marked by the cultural and societal norms of her community. She is precocious and inquisitive, which sets her apart from the more traditional expectations placed on young girls in her village. Nwamgba’s father recognizes her intelligence and encourages her to pursue an education, which was not the norm for girls in her community.

As Nwamgba grows older, she begins to challenge the traditional gender roles and cultural expectations that restrict the opportunities and aspirations of women in her society. She is particularly interested in the history of her people and endeavors to document and preserve their stories, which were traditionally passed down orally.

The story takes a turn when Nwamgba’s community undergoes significant changes, including the arrival of Christian missionaries and the spread of Western education. Nwamgba’s family is among those who convert to Christianity and send their children to school. Nwamgba’s younger brother becomes a priest, and Nwamgba continues her education.

The story portrays Nwamgba’s struggle to assert her voice and maintain her sense of identity in the face of these cultural and religious transformations. She marries a man named Obierika, but their marriage is marked by tensions between the traditional Igbo values and the newer Christian beliefs. Nwamgba remains determined to document the history of her people, believing it is essential to preserve their heritage.

In the end, Nwamgba’s commitment to preserving history and tradition prevails, even as she navigates the complexities of her changing society. The story highlights the importance of documenting and passing down cultural history, even in the face of significant cultural shifts and the challenges of challenging traditional gender roles.

“The Headstrong Historian” offers a powerful exploration of cultural transformation, gender roles, and the resilience of individuals who are determined to preserve their heritage and history. It underscores the importance of education and the role of women in preserving cultural legacies.

Themes

• Immigration and Cultural Adaptation: Many stories in the collection explore the experiences of Nigerian immigrants in the United States and other Western countries. They grapple with the challenges of adapting to new cultures, retaining their cultural identities, and finding their place in a foreign land.
• Identity: Identity is a central theme throughout the collection. Characters often find themselves torn between their cultural roots and the pressures of assimilation in a new country. This theme encompasses questions of gender identity, cultural identity, and personal identity.
• Gender and Feminism: Several stories deal with the roles and expectations placed on women in Nigerian society and in the diaspora. They address issues of gender equality, the challenges faced by women, and the choices they make to assert their independence.
• Family and Relationships: The dynamics of family, particularly in the context of migration and cultural change, are explored in the stories. Relationships between spouses, parents and children, and siblings are central to many narratives.
• Cultural Clashes: The clash between traditional Nigerian culture and Western values, often embodied in the lives of the characters, is a recurring theme. The tension between these two worlds shapes the characters’ experiences.
• History and Tradition: The importance of history and tradition, as well as the preservation of cultural heritage, are themes that appear in several stories. Characters grapple with the impact of modernization and the loss of traditional ways of life.
• Power and Injustice: Many stories depict the power imbalances and injustices that characters face. These may be related to ethnicity, gender, class, or migration status. The stories shed light on the abuses of power and the struggles for justice.
• Isolation and Disconnection: A feeling of isolation and disconnection, both from one’s home country and within the foreign country, is a recurring theme. Characters often grapple with the sense of being outsiders.
• Love and Longing: The theme of love, both romantic and familial, is present in various stories. Characters long for connections and relationships, whether with a partner, family members, or their home country.
• Colonialism and Post-Colonialism: Some stories touch upon the legacy of colonialism and its impact on Nigeria and its people. They explore how historical events continue to shape contemporary society.
• Religion: The role of religion, particularly the introduction of Christianity, is explored in several stories. It highlights the cultural and social changes brought about by religious conversion.
• Inequality and Economic Disparities: The stories often reflect on social and economic inequalities, both within Nigeria and in the West. Characters face challenges related to economic disparity and social class.

Characterization

• Nnamabia : Nnamabia is a central character in “Cell One.” She is a young, intelligent woman who is arrested and imprisoned for a crime she did not commit. Her character represents the injustices faced by many in the Nigerian legal system.
• Nkem: Nkem is the protagonist in “Imitation.” She is a Nigerian woman who moves to America to be with her husband, Obiora. Her character symbolizes the challenges of cultural adaptation and the conflict between traditional Nigerian values and the American way of life.
• Chika : Chika is a young Nigerian woman who accompanies her husband, Obiora, to the American embassy for a visa interview. She serves as a representation of the anxieties and aspirations of many Nigerian immigrants seeking a better life in the United States.
• Akunna : Akunna is the main character in the title story. She is a Nigerian immigrant in the United States who grapples with the challenges of adjusting to a new culture while feeling the weight of a traditional neckpiece. Her character embodies the struggle to balance cultural identity and adaptation.
• Grace : Grace is a Nigerian woman working as a babysitter and housekeeper in the United States. Her character highlights the difficulties faced by immigrants, particularly women, in navigating cultural differences, class disparities, and the search for a sense of belonging.
• Ujunwa : Ujunwa is a young African writer attending a writers’ workshop in South Africa. Her character serves as a reflection of the power dynamics and challenges faced by African writers when dealing with Western literary gatekeepers.
• Nkem : Nkem is a Nigerian woman who has moved to the United States, leaving her family behind in Nigeria. Her character symbolizes the feelings of disconnection, longing, and isolation experienced by many immigrants.
• Nwamgba : Nwamgba is a young Nigerian girl who challenges traditional gender roles and expectations by pursuing an education and preserving the history of her people. Her character reflects the changing dynamics of gender roles and the importance of cultural preservation.
• Obiora : Obiora appears in multiple stories as a common character. He represents the immigrant experience and the complexities faced by those who leave their homeland for a better life in the West.
• Tracy: Tracy is a character who exposes the complexities of relationships and identity. She represents the challenges and tensions that can arise in mixed-race marriages and the impact of cultural differences on individuals.