Introduction to “Lonely Days” by Bayo Adebowale - SS1 Literature Lesson Note

"Lonely Days" is a captivating novel written by Bayo Adebowale, a renowned Nigerian author whose literary works have left an indelible mark on African literature. With a keen focus on human emotions, societal dynamics, and cultural nuances, Adebowale's novel explores the complexities of life in a small Nigerian village, immersing readers in a tale that resonates across cultures and generations.

Yaremi’s character in Lonely Days is that of a hardworking and assertive widow who refuses to be cowed into accepting traditional injunctions of widow inheritance and remarriage set by her society.

In this book, Adebowale created living people, not just characters and showed his appreciation for Africa’s rich cultural heritage as reflected in its flora and fauna, in art, trade, child-raising, education, medicine and succession. In the same breath, he condemned widow inheritance and other cultural practices that subject widows to pain and humiliation. Lonely Days celebrates the beauty, industry, talent and resilience of the African woman. If you buy this book in the hope of buying a prose work, you would be utterly disappointed (for good though). It is not just prose but rich poetry and drama in one piece. What I find disturbing is the character of Ajumobi who beat his wife at some point only to be later described as a loving and caring husband. This however does not detract at all from the general merits of the book.