Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe is a timeless classic.Growing up in Nigeria, it was one of the first books I couldn’t wait to read in its entirety. The novel’s protagonist, Okonkwo, is a respected warrior and leader in Umuofia, deeply committed to traditional values. However, his rigid adherence to masculinity and strength ultimately leads to his personal and communal downfall as he struggles against the forces of colonialism and cultural change.Achebe’s storytelling provides an authentic Nigerian voice, challenging Western narratives that have long misrepresented African societies. Beyond its literary brilliance, the novel plays a crucial role in reclaiming African history and identity, serving as a testament to the resilience of Nigerian culture in the face of historical upheaval.Reading it again as a middle-aged Nigerian American in the Tinubu/Trump era hits differently. It underscores the dangers of rigid leadership and the lasting impact of colonial histories that many nations still grapple with—often denied, rewritten, or exploited for corruption. It also raises pressing questions about social justice: How do we confront the lingering effects of colonial rule? How do we break free from systems that continue to oppress? Achebe’s novel remains as relevant as ever, reminding us that when societies resist change without reflection, things truly do fall apart.