We must remember that polygamy does not only exist in Africa. It is acceptable in several Islamic states and is even practiced, surprisingly, by certain religious sects in America, hence the successful television series, Big Love. Where polygamy is practiced has little bearing on the devastation it causes. The novel is set in Nigeria but its focus is on some of our most basic instincts as human beings — to love and to protect. These instincts are universal and, unfortunately, they are the very ones that polygamy mutates. In today’s world, we know far too much about the way the mind works to subject or invite women into institutions that chip away at their self-esteem and ultimately dehumanise them.
In Conversation: Lola Shoneyin
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