A Future in Chains is a powerful exploration of tradition, faith, and resilience. It challenges us to question the norms that bind us and to believe in the possibility of a brighter, freer future.
By Ime John
The first time I came across Ndifreke Ukpong’s book, A Future in Chains, the cover image struck me. It showed a woman and two young girls in chains. At first, I thought it was about physical imprisonment or slavery.
However, as I delved into it, I realised the chains were symbolic—representing struggles, traditions, and societal pressures. This imagery perfectly set the tone for a compelling story of resilience, tradition, and courage.
Reading the novel brought back memories of my former landlady, a woman who faced challenges similar to those of Nkowo, the protagonist. While her situation was not identical to Nkowo’s, the societal expectations she endured mirrored the oppressive traditions explored in the book.
Her strength, like Nkowo’s, stood out in the face of adversity. This personal connection made the story even more impactful for me.
Set in Ayam village, the story opens with Mr. Ekpendo, a wealthy farmer admired for his success in agriculture. His two sons, Effiong and Ukafia, could not be more different. Effiong, the elder son, leaves the village to pursue an education, eventually becoming a doctor.
Ukafia, on the other hand, chooses farming, idolising their father’s wealth and dismissing the importance of education. This decision sets the stage for the deep conflicts that drive the story.
After Mr. Ekpendo’s death, Effiong takes on the role of supporting the family. However, tragedy strikes when Effiong dies in a car accident, leaving his wife, Nkowo, and their two young daughters to navigate the rigid traditions of Ayam village.
The village elders, led by Obong Ayam and the chief priest, demand that Nkowo marry her late husband’s brother, Ukafia, to preserve the family’s property.
Nkowo’s refusal to comply with this tradition is both courageous and risky. Her decision results in banishment and a curse from the chief priest, who predicts that she will die within a year.
This moment in A Future in Chains touched me deeply. It made me reflect on the power of fear and how it is often used to control people. Yet, Nkowo’s unwavering faith and determination to protect her daughters inspire hope and strength.
Ukafia, as the antagonist, is a character that evokes strong emotions. His actions are driven by jealousy and greed. He uses tradition as a weapon to claim his late brother’s property and to exert control over Nkowo.
Throughout the story, I found myself wondering whether Ukafia would ever recognise his flaws and change, but his ambition blinds him. His character serves as a stark reminder of how power and tradition can be misused to oppress others.
A Future in Chains’ exploration of tradition is one of its strongest elements. In Ayam village, customs dictate nearly every aspect of life, often at the expense of personal freedom.
Through Nkowo’s struggle, the book raises vital questions about whether traditions should remain unchanged or evolve to reflect fairness and humanity. These themes resonate deeply, particularly in communities where women’s rights are often overlooked.
Nkowo’s daughters, Udiomka and Udiomke, embody the future that Nkowo fights so fiercely to protect. Despite the challenges their family endures, they grow into strong, independent women—one becoming a doctor and the other an engineer. Their success stands as a testament to Nkowo’s sacrifices and unwavering values.
The scene where Udiomka saves her grandfather’s life, despite his past rejection of her family, is particularly moving. It highlights the importance of forgiveness and the strength of character Nkowo instilled in her daughters.
Faith is another central theme in A Future in Chains. Nkowo’s belief in God provides her with the strength to confront adversity. Even when she was cursed and banished, her faith remained unshaken. This spiritual dimension adds depth to her character and illustrates how faith can serve as a powerful source of resilience during trying times.
One of the most striking moments in the story is when Nkowo survives the curse placed on her by the chief priest. The villagers believed she would die within a year, but she defied their expectations.
This moment is about more than just physical survival; it symbolises the triumph of truth and faith over fear and superstition. It left me reflecting on how often fear dictates our decisions and how liberating it can be to stand firm in the face of opposition.
The title, A Future in Chains, perfectly captures the essence of the story. At the start, the chains symbolize the oppressive traditions and societal pressures that try to hold Nkowo and her daughters back. But as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that these chains can be broken through courage, determination, and faith.
A Future in Chains’ writing style is simple and accessible, which makes it engaging for a wide range of readers. The vivid descriptions bring Ayam village to life, from its customs and rituals to the interactions among its residents. The contrast between life in the village and the opportunities in the city adds depth to the narrative, highlighting the challenges and rewards of starting over.
What I appreciate most about Ndifreke Ukpong’s book is its portrayal of women’s strength and resilience in a patriarchal society. Nkowo’s journey is a powerful testament to the strength of love, faith, and determination. Her story challenges readers to reflect on the traditions we uphold and to consider whether they promote justice and equality or perpetuate oppression.
Reading A Future in Chains was an emotional experience for me. It prompted me to reflect on my own beliefs and the societal norms we often take for granted. Nkowo’s courage and her determination to create a better future for her daughters are lessons from which we can all learn.
In conclusion, A Future in Chains is a powerful exploration of tradition, faith, and resilience. It challenges us to question the norms that bind us and to believe in the possibility of a brighter, freer future.
While the characters and setting are fictional, the story mirrors real-life struggles and raises awareness of issues that need to be addressed. It is a story that will stay with me for a long time, reminding me of the strength we all have within us to break free from the chains that hold us back.
Ime John is a distinguished mass communication expert, holding a degree from the prestigious University of Calabar. With a solid educational foundation, Ime has established a promising career in the dynamic field of mass communication.