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Children Quote by Chinua Achebe

“Then listen to me,' he said and cleared his throat. 'It's true that a child belongs to its father. But when a father beats his child, it seeks sympathy in its mother's hut. A man belongs to his fatherland when things are good and life is sweet. But when there is sorrow and bitterness he finds…” quote by Chinua Achebe
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““Then listen to me,' he said and cleared his throat. 'It's true that a child belongs to its father. But when a father beats his child, it seeks sympathy in its mother's hut. A man belongs to his fatherland when things are good and life is sweet. But when there is sorrow and bitterness he finds refuge in his motherland. Your mother is there to protect you. She is buried there. And that is why we say that mother is supreme. Is it right that you, Okonkwo, should bring your mother a heavy face and refuse to be comforted? Be careful or you may displease the dead. Your duty is to comfort your wives and children and take them back to your fatherland after seven years. But if you allow sorrow to weigh you down and kill you, they will all die in exile.””

Chinua Achebe

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About This Quote

The passage contrasts filial duty to fatherland with maternal protection, suggesting that in hardship people turn to the nurturing motherland, while in prosperity they align with the fatherland.

In simple terms: Fatherland for success, motherland for sorrow.

Key Takeaway

Cultural identity shifts with emotional state.

Themes

cultural identity family roles philosophy

Mood

reflective somber

Type

cultural philosophical

When to use this quote

  • immigrant assimilation
  • post‑colonial discourse
  • family counseling

Key Concepts

patriarchal vs matriarchal symbolism psychology of belonging

Practical Applications

  • Balance respect for both heritage and nurturing roots
  • Recognize how stress reshapes loyalties

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you define your 'fatherland' and 'motherland'?
  • Can one honor both without conflict?
A Different Perspective

Binary framing may oversimplify complex personal and national identities.

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