Analysis

The analysis of the short story “A Meeting in the Dark” by Ngugi wa Thiong’o shows that it follows a linear, chronological plot structure. The narrative is mainly focused on the main character’s internal struggle, and the climax is foreshadowed several times in the story. 

The main character in the story is John, a young man who is about to leave for university. He believes he has committed a great sin, and he is afraid of his father.

The physical setting is Limuru, Kenya. The action takes place over the course of a couple of days. The social setting explores marriage, gender roles, and cultural differences.

The story is told from the point of view of a third-person narrator. The narrator mostly follows John’s perspective, although we get an insight into the minds of other characters, as well.

The language is formal. The narrative contains some Swahili words which give the story a local color. 

You can read a more detailed analysis in the following sections.