Ngozi Adichie, has always had impactful outcomes with her novels. The latest, Dream Count should follow the same pattern with its symbolism.
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s “Dream Count” is not a standalone novel or collection of essays, but rather a short story published in The New Yorker. This nuance is crucial, as it allows Adichie to explore a specific, concentrated theme within a limited space, magnifying its impact. While it doesn’t possess the expansive narrative scope of her novels like “Americanah” or “Half of a Yellow Sun,” “Dream Count” still showcases her signature strengths: precise prose, insightful character observations, and a keen eye for the complexities of human experience, particularly within the context of contemporary Nigeria.
The story centres on a wealthy, privileged Nigerian family navigating the aftermath of a contentious presidential election. The protagonist, a young woman named Nonso, is primarily concerned with her social life and the superficial anxieties of her class. However, the political turmoil seeps into her world, revealing the fragile foundations upon which her comfortable existence rests.
Adichie masterfully uses Nonso’s limited perspective to expose the broader societal fractures and the insidious nature of political corruption.
One of the most compelling aspects of “Dream Count” is its exploration of denial and wilful ignorance. Nonso and her peers exist in a bubble of affluence, detached from the realities faced by the majority of Nigerians. They attend parties, fret about social media, and dismiss the election’s outcome as a temporary inconvenience. This detachment is not portrayed as malicious, but rather as a symptom of privilege and a desire to maintain a sense of normalcy in the face of unsettling change. Adichie deftly illustrates how this denial allows systemic problems to persist and how it ultimately compromises the moral integrity of those who choose to ignore them.
The title, “Dream Count,” is laden with symbolism. It suggests a manipulation of reality, a calculated effort to fabricate a desired outcome. The “count” refers both to the electoral process and to the ways in which individuals count on their privileged status to shield them from the consequences of political instability. The “dream” aspect, however, highlights the illusory nature of this security. It underscores the fragility of their constructed reality and the looming threat of its collapse.
Adichie’s prose is as sharp and incisive as ever. She employs vivid imagery and precise language to paint a portrait of a society on the brink. The descriptions of the opulent parties, the guarded compounds, and the undercurrent of unease are rendered with remarkable clarity. The dialogue is authentic and nuanced, revealing the characters’ inner thoughts and motivations without resorting to overt exposition.
The story also delves into the complexities of familial relationships. Nonso’s interactions with her parents, particularly her mother, reveal the generational divide and the differing perspectives on political engagement. Her mother, a more pragmatic and politically aware figure, recognizes the gravity of the situation, while Nonso remains entrenched in her youthful naivety. This dynamic adds a layer of emotional depth to the narrative, highlighting the personal costs of political apathy.
Furthermore, “Dream Count” touches upon the role of social media in shaping public perception and fuelling political polarization. Adichie subtly critiques the echo chambers and misinformation that proliferate online, contributing to the erosion of truth and the deepening of societal divisions. Nonso’s reliance on social media for validation and information underscores the dangers of living in a curated reality, where dissenting voices are silenced and alternative perspectives are dismissed.
The story’s ending is deliberately ambiguous, leaving the reader to ponder the long-term implications of the election’s outcome. This lack of resolution serves to underscore the uncertainty and anxiety that pervade Nigerian society. It also invites the reader to reflect on their own role in confronting political injustice and challenging the status quo.
While some might argue that “Dream Count” is too short to fully explore its complex themes, its brevity is precisely what makes it so effective. Adichie’s ability to condense a sprawling narrative into a concise and impactful story is a testament to her mastery of the craft. The story’s brevity also mirrors the fleeting nature of the characters’ denial, highlighting the urgency of addressing the underlying issues.
“Dream Count” is a powerful and timely short story that offers a penetrating glimpse into the political and social realities of contemporary Nigeria. Adichie’s masterful storytelling and insightful observations make it a compelling read, even in its reduced form. It serves as a potent reminder of the dangers of complacency and the importance of confronting political injustice. While it may not offer definitive answers, it prompts readers to ask crucial questions about their own roles in shaping the world around them. The story exemplifies Adichie’s ability to use fiction as a tool for social commentary, prompting reflection and dialogue on pressing issues. The story ultimately asks, how long can a dream count before the reality of the situation breaks through? The answer is left unsaid, but the implication is clear: not for long.
