Nervous Conditions Chapter 7
After a few months at the mission school, the Christmas break is at hand. Nyasha knows that all of the family will return to the village for this, but she does not wish to go. She has become very fond of the conditions at the mission, being so much more civilized. However, her request to stay at the mission is denied, and she grudgingly accompanies all of the family to the village.
Upon arrival, Tambu is especially distrurbed by the squalid conditions. The bathroom is truly disgusting to her, and appears to have not been cleaned since she left. The house is in terrible disrepair, and she is reminded of how much she wants to escape from poverty and a life with no hope for redemption.
Tambu finds her mother pregnant again, but is also very happy to see her younger sisters again.
Babamukuru is disturbed to see that Tambu’s aunt, Lucia, is living at the house, in spite of being told by him to leave many months ago. Lucia is considered to be a woman of loose morals, as she is beautiful but unmarried, and enjoys the company of many men. Indeed, she was carrying on a sexual relationship with Babamukuru’s cousin, Takeshure, as well as with Tambu’s father (which, incidentally, appears to be within traditional values, as men are permitted multiple wives). Her continued presence is explained, though, as being necessary in order to care for Tambu’s mother during her pregnancy. Lucia, notably, is also pregnant.
Over the next few days, a number of other extended family members arrive, creating the monumental task of caring for two dozen people. The females must prepare food, and tend to all chores, but only a few of the females are fit to do so. This leaves Tambu, Nyasha, Maiguru, and “the three helping girls” to tend to the needs of the entire group of 24 people. This included gathering water, performing laundry chores, cooking, tending to the children, and cleaning, among other things. The work keeps them busy all day, as the men enjoy relaxing.
Babamukuru has brought a large amount of meat to the reunion, but it is far too much for the meager refrigerator to hold. Thus, over the course of a few days, much of the meat spoils, but, not wanting to waste it, Maiguru insists on serving it. The putrid smell and taste eventually become overwhelming, and finally only fresh refrigerated meat is served.
Family disputes arise in discussion, and hostility is open and raw. The main issue appears to be the presence of Lucia. The demand from many is that she should leave the homestead, but Lucia insists that she has nowhere else to go. This, she is begrudgingly allowed to stay, for the time being. However, stipulations are made, such as that she will stay only to take care of Tambu’s pregnant mother, and that Tambu’s parents will plan and hold a formal wedding, as their struggles and tribulations are likely the result of living in sin.
Lucia presents an anomaly, as she represents a rebellion from traditional Shona culture. She enjoys a promiscuous lifestyle, and is not afraid to stand up to the men who attempt to restrict her freedoms. She is unconventional, bold, and unique. This also makes her somewhat of an outcast.
Analysis:
Tambu’s awareness of the primitive life of squalor that her family lives in is heightened, after living in conditions considered luxurious for the past few months. She experiences a sort of culture shock, finding the conditions at her old home deplorable, filthy, and in disrepair.
Babamukuru is upset that his orders have not been heeded, those of sending Lucia and Takeshure away. He has become used to obedience, and disobedience does not sit well with him.
Tambu is reminded again of the role females play in Shona culture. She is expected to prepare food, and perform chores, while the men have no such obligation. She and the other unmarried females are also relegated to sleep on the kitchen floor, as they are the least eligible for sleeping quarters.
Lucia, however, presents an exception to the rules, and her behavior is highlighted in stark contrast to that of Maiguru’s. She is independent, and willing to stand up to the rule of men. She boldly disagrees and disobeys, and because of her confident nature and aggressive approach, even the men in charge are intimidated into giving in, much of the time. She is promiscuous, and known for doing as she pleases. While Tambu finds some of this inspiring, she is also aware that this does not always work in the woman’s best interest. Lucia is considered somewhat of an outcast, and garners little actual respect.
