So Long a Letter, written by Mariama Bâ, is a classic novel that explores the themes of friendship and feminism in Senegalese society. The book was first published in French in 1979 and was later translated into English by Modupé Bodé-Thomas. This book review article will delve into the details of So Long a Letter, its plot, characters, and themes, and provide a link to download the PDF version of the book.
Plot Summary
The book is written in the form of a letter from Ramatoulaye, a middle-aged Senegalese woman, to her childhood friend Aissatou. The letter details the struggles Ramatoulaye faces after her husband's sudden death and how she copes with raising her twelve children alone. Throughout the book, Ramatoulaye reflects on her past experiences and the choices she made that led her to her present situation.
One of the most significant events in the book is the polygamous marriage of Ramatoulaye's husband to a younger woman, Binetou. The marriage not only shatters Ramatoulaye's world but also highlights the gender inequalities and double standards prevalent in Senegalese society.
Characters
Ramatoulaye is the protagonist of the book and the narrator of the letter. She is a strong, independent woman who struggles to balance her traditional values with her desire for personal freedom. Aissatou, her childhood friend, is another strong female character who rebels against societal norms by leaving her husband when he takes a second wife.
The male characters in the book, including Ramatoulaye's husband, are portrayed as selfish and oppressive. However, the book also acknowledges the complex nature of human relationships and the struggles that men face in a society that expects them to be the breadwinners and the heads of households.
Themes
So Long a Letter delves into several themes, including feminism, tradition, and modernity. The book highlights the struggles of women in a patriarchal society and their fight for equality and freedom. It also explores the tension between modernity and tradition and the challenges of reconciling the two.
The book also touches on the themes of love, friendship, and betrayal. The friendship between Ramatoulaye and Aissatou serves as a reminder of the power of female solidarity and support, while the betrayal of Ramatoulaye's husband and friend highlights the fragility of human relationships.
Book Details
| Title | So Long a Letter |
| Author | Mariama Bâ |
| Translator | Modupé Bodé-Thomas |
| Genre | Fiction |
| Published | 1979 |
| Pages | 96 |
FAQ
What is the book about?
So Long a Letter is a novel about a middle-aged Senegalese woman named Ramatoulaye who writes a letter to her childhood friend Aissatou. The book explores themes of friendship, feminism, tradition, and modernity in Senegalese society.
Who is the author of the book?
The author of So Long a Letter is Mariama Bâ, a Senegalese feminist and writer.
Where can I download the PDF version of the book?
You can download the PDF version of So Long a Letter using the link provided below.
References
Bâ, Mariama. So Long a Letter. Heinemann, 1989.
Overall, So Long a Letter is a compelling and thought-provoking novel that provides insights into the lives of women in Senegalese society. It is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the themes of feminism, tradition, and modernity in African literature. Download the PDF version of the book using the link below and immerse yourself in the world of Ramatoulaye and Aissatou.
