No Longer at Ease – Chinua Achebe

No Longer at Ease by Chinua Achebe is the second novel in his African Trilogy, following Things Fall Apart. Set in the early 20th century, the story centers on Obi Okonkwo, the grandson of the protagonist from Things Fall Apart, who has been educated in England and returns to Nigeria with high hopes of bringing progress and change to his community. However, as Obi navigates the complexities of post-colonial life, he faces a clash between his Western education and the traditional values of his culture. Caught between his desire to modernize his society and the expectations of his family and community, Obi’s ideals are challenged by the realities of corruption, bribery, and the economic struggles that pervade the newly independent Nigeria. Achebe powerfully examines themes of cultural conflict, personal responsibility, and the consequences of colonialism in shaping the individual and the nation.