Chapter Nine Summary

Okonkwo had a few restless, uneasy nights and was woken up by his wife Ekwefi, who announced that their daughter Ezinma was dying, as she was suffering from a high fever. Ezinma was Ekwefi’s only child and they had a bond stronger than that of a mother and child—they were equal companions. Ekwefi had lost nine children in their infancy, before the birth of her daughter Ezinma.

Ezinma showed all signs of an ogbanje—an evil spirit disguised as a child—but she lived long and her mother began to love her. They knew she was an ogbanje because of her bouts of illness and good health.

Okonkwo tried to revive his daughter by taking care of her.

Chapter Nine Analysis

It is clearer now why Okonkwo wishes his daughter Ezinma was a man. She is born from his favorite wife Ekwefi, who has lost nine children before giving birth to Ezinma. The young girl has been able to break off from her ill fate and has the resilience of a boy.

Okonkwo and Ekwefi do everything, as good parents, to heal Ezinma when she falls sick.