African Book Review: “Stay With Me” by Ayọ̀bámi Adébáyọ̀

“Stay With Me” by Ayọ̀bámi Adébáyọ̀ is a poignant exploration of love, marriage, and societal expectations set against the vibrant backdrop of Nigeria in the 1980s and 1990s. This debut novel, shortlisted for the Women’s Prize for Fiction, delves deep into the emotional and psychological struggles of its protagonists, Yejide and Akin, as they navigate the pressures of infertility and the intrusion of polygamy into their marriage.

The story revolves around Yejide and Akin, a couple deeply in love but facing immense pressure to conceive. Despite their mutual agreement against polygamy, Akin’s family introduces a second wife, Funmi, into their lives, believing Yejide to be the cause of their childlessness. This act sets off a chain of events that tests their love, loyalty, and sanity. As Yejide desperately seeks to save her marriage and fulfill her role as a mother, she embarks on a journey filled with heartbreak, betrayal, and unexpected revelations.

Adébáyọ̀ masterfully tackles the themes of marriage and infidelity, portraying the complexities and emotional toll of such relationships. The novel also sheds light on the cultural stigma surrounding infertility and the lengths to which individuals will go to meet societal expectations. Through Yejide’s and Akin’s experiences, the author critiques the rigid cultural norms and the pressure to conform to traditional roles.

Yejide emerges as a resilient and determined character, whose emotional journey is both heartbreaking and inspiring. Akin, on the other hand, grapples with his own insecurities and societal pressures, making him a complex and relatable character. The supporting characters, including Funmi and Akin’s family, add depth to the narrative and highlight the various facets of Nigerian society.

Adébáyọ̀’s writing is both lyrical and unsentimental, capturing the raw emotions of her characters. The alternating viewpoints of Yejide and Akin provide a comprehensive understanding of their inner struggles and enhance the storytelling. However, some readers might find the narrative occasionally weighed down by excessive detail.

“Stay With Me” has been praised for its emotional depth and powerful storytelling. Critics have lauded Adébáyọ̀’s ability to tackle sensitive cultural issues with grace and empathy. However, some have noted the narrative’s occasional clunkiness and the lack of distinctive voices for the main characters.

Overall, “Stay With Me” is a compelling and emotionally charged novel that offers a profound insight into the complexities of love, marriage, and societal expectations. It is a must-read for those interested in African literature and stories that explore the human condition.