APPRECIATING CHUKWUEMEKA IKE'S "OUR CHILDREN ARE COMING"" - Onyeji Nnaji

To appreciate literature is simply to be desolved into the dimensions of narratives carefully contained by a literary piece. The way the reader sees the writer and the conclusion he is able to draw about the author is generally dependent on how much he gets himself assimilated into the narrative dexterity of the author. The writer, who would want readers to gain an immeasurable understanding of the work, uses such language he believes would encourage the reading of his work. But one thing is paramount; he does not place the work so simply for every reader, instead he weaves several techniques into the narrative so that he that approaches the text would see reasons to think.

To think properly with any work of art is simply to be absorbed by the same piece of writing. By this, the reader identifies with any character of his choice in the work. With this character, he gains a better position to judge, support or disagree with the philosophy dominant in the text. By so doing, he can vividly say that he appreciates the text. Chukauemeka Ike is not a writer one approaches his works with the preparedness of taking him merely for his choice of narrative. The reader must apply his mind towards justifying the potency of the literary elements consumed in the text's architecture. The novel, Our Children Are Coming by Chukauemeka Ike is one of such works that engage readers beyond immediate interpretations.

The novel, Our Children Are Coming, explores various literary elements such as point of view, narrative technique, style, character development, plot development, and characterization. Let's discuss each of these elements briefly:

• Point of view: Point of view refers to the perspective from which the story is told. It can be first-person, third-person limited, or third-person omniscient. In "Our Children Are Coming," the point of view is typically third-person limited, where the narrator focuses on the thoughts and experiences of a specific character.

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• Narrative technique: Narrative technique refers to the way the story is structured and presented. It includes elements like flashbacks, foreshadowing, and symbolism. Chukwuemeka Ike may employ various narrative techniques to enhance the storytelling and engage the readers.

• Style: Style refers to the author's unique way of writing, including the use of language, sentence structure, and literary devices. Chukwuemeka Ike's style in "Our Children Are Coming" may be characterized by vivid descriptions, figurative language, and a distinct narrative voice.

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• Character development: Character development involves the growth and transformation of the characters throughout the story. Chukwuemeka Ike may develop the characters in "Our Children Are Coming" by revealing their personalities, motivations, and conflicts, allowing readers to connect with them on a deeper level.

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• Plot development: Plot development refers to the progression of events in the story. Chukwuemeka Ike may craft a compelling plot in "Our Children Are Coming" by introducing conflicts, building tension, and resolving them in a satisfying manner. The plot may include twists, turns, and moments of suspense.

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• Characterization: Characterization involves the techniques used to create and portray characters. Chukwuemeka Ike may use direct characterization (explicitly describing a character's traits) and indirect characterization (revealing traits through actions, dialogue, and interactions) to bring the characters in "Our Children Are Coming" to life.

These elements work together to create a rich and engaging reading experience in "Our Children Are Coming" by Chukwuemeka Ike