Nervous Conditions by Tsitsi Dangarembga

Book details

Published: 1988
Formats Available: Audible, Paperback, Kindle, Hardcover

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Book Review

Introduction

Nervous Conditions is the first book in Tsitsi Dangarembga’s acclaimed trilogy, followed by The Book of Not (2006) and This Mournable Body (2020). It was the first novel published in English by a Black woman from Zimbabwe and named one of the BBC’s Top 100 Books That Have Shaped the World in 2018.

This brilliantly crafted and thought-provoking novel follows the life of Tambudzai, a young Shona girl growing up in colonial Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). Through Tambudzai’s lived experiences, the story confronts intricate themes of patriarchy, colonialism, Western education, identity, and resistance, weaving them into an engaging and often humorous narrative.

A Story of Struggle and Resistance

Tambudzai’s journey begins with tragedy, as her opportunity to attend school arises only after the death of her brother. Western education, seen as a privilege and a tool for advancement, is simultaneously portrayed as a mechanism that sometimes undermines cultural values.

Her uncle, Baba Mukuru, is the epitome of this tension. An educated man with a master’s degree from Britain, he embodies the contradictions of patriarchy and Western education. Despite his academic achievements, he wields his authority in a profoundly oppressive manner, reinforcing the subjugation of women in his family. His constant clashes with his defiant daughter, Nyasha, highlight these complexities.

Nyasha, educated and vocal, challenges her father’s patriarchal views while resisting colonial ideals, serving as a source of inspiration for Tambudzai. Nyasha’s struggles, including her battle with bulimia, reflect the psychological toll of navigating conflicting cultural expectations and the pressures of being both Shona and educated in a colonial system.

Identity, Language, and Resistance

The interplay of language—English versus Shona—becomes a metaphor for the broader struggles of cultural belonging and self-definition. Tambudzai’s journey is not only about personal growth but also about grappling with the enduring legacies of colonialism and patriarchy.

One of the most significant moments in the novel is her parents’ white wedding, a ceremony enforced by Baba Mukuru. Tambudzai perceives this as a betrayal of their cultural values, and her silent protest during the event marks a pivotal moment of resistance.

Personal Reflection

On a personal level, I found this book profoundly moving. Tambudzai’s story, though set in a specific cultural and historical context, echoes universal themes of struggle, resilience, and the pursuit of agency. Her silent protests, the tension between cultural heritage and modern aspirations, and the courage to question authority deeply resonated with me. As someone who has navigated similar cultural complexities, I felt an emotional connection to Tambudzai’s journey.

The audiobook narration added an extra layer of depth and authenticity. The narrator brought the characters to life, making their emotions, conflicts, and triumphs all the more vivid and relatable. The humour and nuanced exploration of complex issues all came together seamlessly, making Nervous Conditions a standout read.

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Final Thoughts: Why You Should Read This Book

Nervous Conditions is a masterpiece—a deeply layered, richly told story that invites reflection and conversation about the roles of Western education, culture, and resistance in shaping identity. It is an African literary classic, and I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a powerful and thought-provoking read.

About the Author: Tsitsi Dangarembga

Tsitsi Dangarembga is a Zimbabwean author, filmmaker, and activist. Born in 1959 in Mutoko, Zimbabwe, she studied medicine at the University of Cambridge before switching to psychology at the University of Zimbabwe. She later pursued film studies in Germany, leading to a successful career in storytelling across multiple mediums.

Dangarembga’s debut novel, Nervous Conditions (1988), was the first book published in English by a Black Zimbabwean woman and is widely regarded as a landmark work in African literature. It was followed by The Book of Not (2006) and This Mournable Body (2020), completing her critically acclaimed trilogy.

In addition to her literary contributions, Dangarembga is an award-winning filmmaker and a fierce advocate for social justice, particularly in Zimbabwe. She has been an outspoken voice against political repression and gender inequality. Her work continues to inspire discussions on colonialism, identity, and resistance.