“Proverbs are the Palm-oil with which words are eaten.” What does this proverb mean in chapter one of Things Fall Apart?
Achebe illustrates the importance of proverbs in Igbo society by writing, “Among the Igbo the art of conversation is regarded very highly, and proverbs are the palm oil with which words are eaten.” In Igbo society, palm oil is a fundamental ingredient used for cooking. Palm oil not only provides flavour to the meal but…