Nervous Conditions by Tsitsi Dangarembga is a powerful and poignant coming-of-age novel set in 1960s colonial Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). The story follows Tambu, a young girl from a poor rural family, as she navigates the complexities of race, class, gender, and identity. Determined to break free from the constraints of her impoverished upbringing, Tambu’s journey is shaped by her relationships with her ambitious cousin Nyasha, her stern father, and the oppressive colonial society around her.
Through vivid storytelling and a keen examination of societal norms, Dangarembga weaves a narrative that explores the intersection of personal desires and political realities. Nervous Conditions is a sharp, thought-provoking exploration of the ways in which colonialism, patriarchy, and education shape the lives of women and communities. A modern African classic, this novel offers a gripping and emotional exploration of resilience, resistance, and the search for freedom.
