The Wrestling Match by Buchi Emecheta (1983): A Review

Title: The Wrestling Match

Author: Buchi Emecheta

Publication Year: 1983, June 1

Pages: 74

Rating: ⭐⭐

Genre: Children’s Book, African Literature, Coming-of-age

Source: Book

Opening Sentence: It was during that quiet part of the evening when all the buyers and sellers of the Eke market had gone home.

This book isn’t something I would typically choose, but I felt compelled to read it, so here I am. Initially, I approached it thinking it was a children’s book, but I believe it is better suited for young adults. Regardless, it's not my usual preference. The writing style is simple, clear, and direct, avoiding unnecessary embellishments.

The story follows a boy’s coming of age in a Nigerian village after the Nigerian Civil War. Emecheta explores the struggles faced by a generation shaped by conflict and trauma; although this backdrop looms large, its effects are profoundly felt. The boys, having grown up amid turmoil, display a rebellious attitude, distancing themselves from traditional values and responsibilities. Tensions escalate as they inadvertently become entangled in conflicts—not just with their peers but also with their own identities—culminating in a climactic wrestling match that symbolizes both their internal and external struggles.

While I appreciate the book's message that in times of war, no one truly wins, I take issue with the phrase "in a good war, nobody wins." We should have learned by now that there is no “good” aspect to any form of war. Additionally, the elders are depicted as wise figures who attempt to teach valuable lessons to the youth and take pride in the results. However, they also played a role in escalating the situation, leading to significant consequences, including an ear being cut, rumors being spread, and lies being told. So, what’s the message here? Shouldn’t both generations strive to find common ground?