Loss as a metaphor for selfhood in Neshani Andreas’ <i>The Purple Violet of Oshaantu</i>

Abstract

This study examines the spousal neglect and cataclysmic domestic violence that debilitate Kauna physically, emotionally and spiritually in her marriage with Shange in Neshani Andreas’ The Purple Violet of Oshaantu. The symbolic implications of the colours of purple and seek violet are central to the evolution of the introspective personality of Kauna, who defies tradition and obstinately refuses to cry and mourn Shange, her abusive husband after his sudden death, or to present a tribute in his honour at his funeral service. Considering her strange attitude as disrespectful to the Shange clan, Kauna is made to lose all of the wealth as well as the homestead that she built up with Shange. But she resolves to start life again and make it a better one than what she had with Shange. This inquiry seeks to lend fortitude and impetus to women in precarious situations so that they may not only be hopeful in whatever they lose, but they may attain selfhood in their vision for regeneration. It makes a modest contribution to the corpus of female writings that address spousal terrorism by, and death of the man as mutually inclusive for the freedom, survival and selfhood of the woman in contemporary African cultures.

Keywords: Loss, Metaphor, Selfhood