Language

Style of writing

The language used by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie in the short story “Imitation” is informal and includes words that reflect the characters’ social background and Nigerian heritage. 

The dialogue reflects the class differences between characters. For example, when Nkem and Amaechi talk, Amaechi constantly addresses Nkem with “madam”. This is not only a polite expression but also a form of distinguishing the roles of master and servant:

‘You think your oga Obiora has always had girlfriends, don’t you?’

(…)

‘It is not my place, madam.’

‘I would not have told you if I did not want to talk to you about it, Amaechi.’

‘But madam, you know, too.’ (p. 25, ll. 16-20)

This example shows that even though Amaechi is close to Nkem, the language she uses still maintains a formal dist...