Renowned Nigerian author, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, has reaffirmed her dedication to raising her sons with values centered on gender equality, mutual respect, and the rejection of toxic masculinity.
During an insightful conversation with BBC’s Emma Barnett, published on YouTube on Wednesday, Adichie emphasized the crucial role that parents play in shaping the ideologies of the next generation, particularly in how young boys perceive and interact with women.
“I am determined to raise good men,” she firmly stated. “I’m thinking about how to make them never feel entitled to women’s bodies.”
The award-winning writer, widely celebrated for her feminist advocacy, pointed out the stark contrast in role models available for young boys compared to girls. She noted that while young girls today have numerous accomplished women in public life to look up to, young boys often lack equally inspiring male figures.
“In general, little girls now have women in public life they can admire. But I don’t think boys have that in the same way. That space is instead occupied by noxious characters and ideas. I wish the good men would stand up,” Adichie remarked.
She further elaborated on the need to redefine masculinity to align with equality, stressing that societal norms should not dictate behavior but rather evolve to create a more just and inclusive world.
“Culture doesn’t make us, we make culture. We can remake masculinity in a way that is compatible with equality. It can be done,” she asserted.
In addition to her views on gender roles, Adichie reflected on the personal impact of motherhood on her creative process. She candidly admitted that becoming a mother once caused a creative block that hindered her writing.
“I don’t like to use the expression ‘writer’s block’ because I’m superstitious, but it happened when I became pregnant. Something changed, and I don’t think it was just physiological,” she revealed.
Adichie’s latest novel, Dream Count, marks her highly anticipated return to fiction after more than a decade. The book is a profound exploration of women’s lives, delving into themes of gender, race, and health. She described the novel as one that embodies “radical honesty” in addressing the realities of contemporary womanhood.
With her continued advocacy for gender equality, thought-provoking literary works, and commitment to raising socially conscious children, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie remains an influential voice in reshaping societal narratives.