Book Talk with Cheluchi Onyemelukwe-Onuobia on the book: “The Son of the House”.
By Ifunanya O.
On Tuesday, November 19th, we had the honour of hosting renowned author Professor Cheluchi Onyemelukwe-Onuobia, who shared her thought-provoking novel, "The Son of the House," with us. Thirteen students from Ireti Senior Grammar School and Falomo Senior High School gathered around, eager to delve into the world of Julie and Nwabulu, two women whose lives become intertwined in unexpected ways.
As Professor Onyemelukwe-Onuobia began to discuss her novel, the room filled with curiosity and enthusiasm. "The Son of the House" is more than just a story – it's an exploration of the complexities of Nigerian society, where tradition and societal expectations often clash with individual desires.
The novel explores themes of gender, family, identity, and power dynamics which resonated deeply with the students. They saw themselves in Julie and Nwabulu's struggles, and the post-colonial Nigerian backdrop provided a rich context for understanding the intricacies of relationships and societal norms.
Professor Onyemelukwe-Onuobia's passion for equality shone through as she shared her musings on why some people are poor while others are rich, and why gender roles persist in shaping our lives. Her words struck a chord with the students, who listened intently as she offered valuable advice on writing and creativity.
"Read widely, explore different perspectives," she encouraged. "Don't get stuck on one project – let your imagination flow through multiple stories." And, as if sharing a secret, she whispered, "Sometimes, your characters will take on a life of their own – let them guide you."
The students were captivated, and their questions flowed freely. One student reflected on the novel's poignant portrayal of human trafficking, acknowledging the harsh realities of life. Another noted the irony of the title, "The Son of the House," highlighting how the story revolves around two women, yet remains overshadowed by the presence of men.
As the session drew to a close, the students left with full hearts and minds, grateful for the opportunity to engage with Professor Onyemelukwe-Onuobia and her thought-provoking work. The encounter not only deepened their understanding of Nigerian society but also inspired them to question, explore, and create.
In that moment, the boundaries between author, students, and novel dissolved, leaving only the shared human experience – a testament to the transformative power of storytelling.
