Why does Okonkwo make conscious efforts to avoid looking like his father?

Answer

Why does Okonkwo make conscious efforts to avoid looking like his father? [2016] 

In “Things Fall Apart” (1958), Chinua Achebe (1930-2013) shows how family shapes a person’s destiny. Okonkwo’s father, Unoka, was lazy, weak, and careless. He left behind shame and debt. Okonkwo grew up hating his father’s failure and weakness. To erase that image, he worked hard to be the complete opposite of Unoka in every way.

Shame of a Lazy Father: Unoka was known as a poor and idle man. He loved music and drink but hated hard work. He was ridiculed by the entire village. The narrator says, 

“Okonkwo had clearly washed his hands and so he ate with the kings and elders.” 

This means that Okonkwo earned respect through his own efforts, unlike his father. 

Fear of Weakness and Failure: Okonkwo’s greatest fear is to be like his father. The narrator says, 

“Okonkwo was ruled by one passion—to hate everything that his father Unoka had loved.” 

He believes that gentleness, emotion, and music are signs of weakness. So, he hides his feelings and acts harshly even toward his family. 

Desire for Strength and Honor: Okonkwo works day and night to earn titles and wealth. He becomes a great farmer, warrior, and leader. The narrator says, 

“He was not afraid of war. He was … a man of war.” 

This line shows his courage and hard spirit. 

Reaction to Childhood Suffering: Okonkwo suffered hunger and shame in childhood because of Unoka’s debts. Those bitter memories made him proud and ambitious. He builds his life on hard work and self-control. He punishes any weakness he finds in himself or others, trying to escape his father’s image forever.

In short, Okonkwo avoids resembling his father because he fears shame, weakness, and failure. His pride and strength grow from deep pain.