Purple Hibiscus - Role Of Silence

One critic suggests that Silence is a character in the novel. Do you agree?

Upon reflecting the Purple Hibiscus and the ideas that came across to me as a reader, I noticed that Silence played significant roles; as its definition of lack of speaking but also as a form of communication. I found this aspect of the plot powerful in many different senses including how it enhances the character understanding and development of Kambili as well as highlighting strong themes within the book. However, to fully consider Silence as a character is a large consideration. Silence would be considered a very complex character playing both a protagonist and antagonist. It is better understood almost as a literary and practical device in the story in terms of language and plot. Silence influences the characterization, atmosphere and the methods of communication in the Purple Hibiscus and so shouldn't be considered a character in the novel.

Silence aids the characterization of Kambili in the first half of the story. Kambili struggles to speak when her father finds that she comes second in the class list. The fear and lack of confidence within her personality is emphasized. On another occasion, Amaka encourages Kambili to socialize with her friends, however, she is unable to speak and excuses herself embarrassingly. Her inability to comfortably socialize based on her upbringing is illustrated through this event. Furthermore, silence allows the reader to explore further into the mind of Kambili; what her thoughts are through the moments of silence. This demonstrates the extent of how silence influences characterization.

Silence also plays a role of affecting atmosphere within certain scenes of the story. Kambili is silent on many occasions at Aunt Ifeoma's house. She keeps silent through the singing at the dinner table. She feels uneasy and does not participate. This reflects the mood felt by Kambili and the reader. On the verandah, on separate occasions, not much is said by Kambili and others. This is a new silent, one that reflects the calm atmosphere of the environment which is also felt by the readers. It is important to acknowledge the different effects of how is used silence in the two situations. This shows how lack of speaking affects atmosphere