Themes

Misunderstanding 

An important theme in the short story “On Monday of Last Week” by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is misunderstanding. The theme is explored especially through Kamara’s attitude towards Tracy, but not only.

Kamara is highly observant, however, she often misinterprets situations. For example, Kamara builds herself an entire future with Tracy based on one short conversation with her. When Kamara first meets Tracy, she is already curious about her, as Tracy never leaves the basement and seems to spend very little time with her son. Tracy’s actions during the meeting shift Kamara’s feelings from curiosity to attraction.

Tracy compliments Kamara and makes comments that could be considered forward and with romantic implications. She even tells Kamara that she should take off her clothes for her one day. Although Tracy adds that this is to paint Kamara, it is not surprising that Kamara gives it another interpretation as well. 

Kamara’s entire worldview changes from the moment she believes Tracy wishes to have a relationship with her. She distances herself from Neil and does not want to be as friendly with him as she usually is. She becomes happy, something that even her husband not...