- Why does Opokuya oppose Esi's decision to divorce Oko? What does she try to say by telling Esi, "Our societies have no patience with the unmarried woman" (48)? Why is Esi telling Opokuya, "I'm sure there'll be no solution for me. Unless I meet a man who is prepared to accept my lifestyle" (48)? Is Esi's thinking too modern, or is she unrealistic about the real status of women in Ghanaian society? Is Opokuya sympathetic to Esi's situation? Why do you think Opokuya feels envious of Esi's "freedom of movement" (56)? Does Opokuya think she is happily married?
- What did Fusena do before she married Ali? Why couldn't she continue to do her work after her marriage to Ali? While living in London as Ali's wife, Fusena felt "the loss" (66), and "it occurred to her that life should offer more than marriage" (66). Why did Fusena feel that way? What was Fusena dissatisfied with? Once Ali and Fusena have returned to Ghana, she wants to resume her teaching career, but Ali does not allow Fusena to go back to teaching. Why? How would you characterize Ali? Later, when Ali tells her that he is planning to take a second wife, Fusena asks him whether "she has a university degree" (99). Why does she ask that question? Why does Fusena remove her veil, and what does her action signify?
- While dating Ali, Esi thinks that "after all living alone was not the unpleasant business people made it seem" (81). Then, why does Esi agree to become Ali's second wife? Has Ali discussed his plan to take a second wife with Fusena? Why does he want Esi to wear a ring, and why does she feel uncomfortable with his idea? What is the main reason Esi's mother disagrees with Esi's decision to become Ali's second wife? Despite her initial disapproval, Esi's mother eventually approves of Esi's decision. Why? What is the main reason Opokuya disapproves of Esi's marriage to Ali? Why is Opokuya telling Esi that the first rule of polygamy is "already broken" (97)?
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