The power struggle between generations is a central theme of the novel.
Odili is a naive character who has refused a government post in favor of a teaching job in the "bush," a rural area, in order to escape having to lick the boots of the politically connected. Ironically, he gets drawn in, starting with an elaborate reception hosted by Nanga, followed closely by an invitation to spend holidays with him at the Minister's mansion in the capital. His own father's relative poverty in recent years, because of his many wives, seems to foster Odili's susceptibility to Nanga's overtures. Knowing what he does about Nanga's harsh treatment of the Minister of Finance, he should have known there would be strings attached.
While staying at Nanga's place, Odili brings a girl, Elsie, and Nanga in.....
