Petals of Blood : Quotations
Petals of Blood is a notable literary work by Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of Petals of Blood.
Quotations
Quotes
“There were no other worlds. There was only this one.” – Abdulla
Explanation: Abdulla rejects false hopes of heaven or escape. He believes people must fight for justice in this real world. The line shows Ngũgĩ’s call for social realism and action.
“It was always the duty of youth to fight all the ogres.” – Nyakinyua
Explanation: Nyakinyua tells this during a traditional song. The “ogres” symbolize colonial rulers and corruption. Youth must protect the nation from oppression.
“Theng’eta—the spirit.” – Nyakinyua
Explanation: Theng’eta is a local brew made by Nyakinyua. It represents unity, culture, and spiritual power of the people.
“We are celebrating new life in Ilmorog.” – Abdulla
Explanation: Abdulla says this when the village begins to grow. The line symbolizes hope, renewal, and the people’s effort to rebuild after hardship.
“They had been betrayed by the very people they trusted.” – Narrator
Explanation: After independence, the leaders exploit the poor. The line expresses Ngũgĩ’s anger at postcolonial corruption.
“Freedom had only changed hands.” – Karega
Explanation: Karega realizes that independence brought no justice. Power moved from whites to local elites, but oppression continued.
“A man’s soul dies slowly when he watches injustice and keeps silent.” – Karega
Explanation: Karega believes silence supports oppression. He urges people to speak out and fight for fairness.
“The rich feast while the poor go hungry.” – Wanja
Explanation: Wanja condemns inequality in Kenya. She speaks as a woman who has seen both poverty and wealth.