Interior Monologue

Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o uses interior monologue to reveal characters' inner thoughts, emotions, and conflicts. This technique allows the reader to experience the characters' struggles directly, as if they are speaking to themselves.

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What is an Interior Monologue?

• It provides insight into their emotions and personal struggles.
• Often used to show deep conflict, regret, or frustration.

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Example: Gikonyo's Inner Struggle

Gikonyo's thoughts in Chapter 7:

• He feels deep bitterness and humiliation.
• His thoughts flow naturally, showing his pain and helplessness.

"Gikonyo sat on a chair and bit his lower lip to steady a bitterness close to tears as whispers went, simultaneously, through his head and heart: God was cruel, else, why didn't he spare him this humiliation?"

• This moment highlights Gikonyo's emotional suffering and his struggle to accept his fate.

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✅ Key Takeaways

• Interior monologue allows readers to access a character's private thoughts.
• It reveals emotions like pain, regret, and inner conflict.
• Gikonyo's monologue in Chapter 7 shows his deep humiliation and emotional turmoil.