Top 7 Nervous Conditions quotes
“I was not sorry when my brother died.” Words of narrator/ Tambu, opening line of book
These words startle the reader into immediate interest. There is an implied assurance that the explanation for such an unexpected statement will be provided. It is a very effective “hook,” with elements of mystery, shock, and even disbelief.
As promised, further reading will explain that Tambu’s brother, while not truly appreciative of the benefits he enjoyed, stood in the way of Tambu’s aspirations. His death would open doors for her regarding her pursuit of education and independence.
"Can you cook books and feed them to your husband? Stay at home with your mother. Learn to cook and clean. Grow vegetables." Words of Jeremiah, Chapter 2
Tambu’s father thought that females seeking higher education was a foolish endeavor, and certainly not one that he wished to spend his own money on. He believed in the traditional values that dictate that a woman should master domestic duties, so that the husband could be taken care of as he earned the family’s income.
"This business of womanhood is a heavy burden." Words of Tambu’s mother, Chapter 2
Tambu’s mother has lived with a traditional role for her entire life. While she acknowledges the difficulties a woman must deal with while tending to domestic duties, she feels that this is correct. Her generation accepts that a woman should serve her husband. Tambu, on the other hand, is questioning this idea, and has begun to resent the reasoning that just because it’s always been done this way, it should continue.
“The victimization, I saw, was universal.” Words of Tambu, Chapter 6
Tambu had hoped that men of higher social standing (as was Babamukuru) would be less prone to feeling superior and oppressive towards females. After Babamukuru’s brutal confrontation with Nyasha, Tambu now believes that all men act ruthlessly superior towards all women.
“I am not happy. I am not happy any more in this house.” Words of Maiguru, Chapter 6
Tambu’s aunt has realized that she is not happy under the patriarchal oppression of her husband. She also realizes that she has the ability to be independent. She questions gender roles, and inspires Tambu to further consider the inequalities that they foster.
“It would be a marvelous opportunity ... to forget who you were.” Words of Nyasha, Chapter 9
Speaking to Tambu, Nyasha is very aware that if Tambu attends the convent school, she will grow further from her Shona culture, as British culture will be extolled there. Nyasha has seen this very thing happen with her and her family, when overseas during the university eductaion of her parents, and she fears this will happen to Tambu as well.
