My Children Are Greater

Than Me"

Such is the prayer of the parent, the wish for a better life for one’s offsprings. It doesn’t matter which life one chooses, the prayer goes for all; great minds, educators, even those with a criminal disposition.

In all cultures, in all faiths, in all walks of life the same aspirations are pursued, even in business circles. Little wonder companies are buying out smaller {or indeed bigger} conglomerates. Parents are sacrificing leisures, working all hours just so their children can attend desired universities or get welcomed into the “right circle of friends”. The most notorious example suppposedly to have existed was that of Jesus Christ. He gave up all pleasure of the flesh {well most of it, let’s not forget Mary Magdallen}, just so mankind can obtain salvation and deliverance from God.

But what if the child is impatient? Or what if such sacrifice is itself depraved, say like killing your very own child. Then what?

Such are the contemplations of Moremi, espoused to Wawa who goes on to beget Osha. So where is Moremi’s prayer for a better life for her son? Moermi, who draws her inspiration from the historical Ajasoro, lacks the faith {and will power} to fulfill her pledge. Unlike Ile-Ife’s Moremi Ajasoro, Onwuegbute’s Moremi is let down by the unforseen development that culminates in her mission being exposed.

So, faced with the possibility of being killed off by his mother, Osha re-thinks his allegiance {and love} to his progenitor. Is Osha to strike at the mother to save his skin? {An act which is taboo onto itslef in mst African cultures.} Do we have enough reason to say Osha is the quintessential misogynist, lacking morality in a world continually going crazy? He ends up marrying a few women himself, but does he really love them or is that part of his ploy to subject them all to a life of servitude?

Set in the 18th century delta region of the Niger {Nigeria} “Confluence” even draws similarities with the Yoruba deity Esimirin  {osimiri  meaning river to the most of the delta dwellers}.

So, what is Osha to do? How is he to save himself from an ordained damnation? Spare us your thoughts. How should Osha kill his mother? Or should he allow her get her wicked way? Or are there feminist out there who would question Osha’s intentions? Give us your view.

To read an excerpt, visit www.mybooktalk.com/confluence