THE TIES THAT BIND CHAPTER 1
By Kosam Ndlovu
The first chapter of the text The Ties That Bind is expository in nature. The major characters as well as the major themes are highlighted for further exploration in the subsequent chapters. Through the use of suspense and foreshadowing, the reader is kept spellbound by the fascinating multi-plotting presented in this introductory chapter. Told from the third person omniscient perspective, the reader has a panoramic view of the entire scope of the issues that are brought out physically and through the thinking processes of the characters.
Jacqueline is portrayed as an individual with authority and confidence. The onomatopoeic clanking sound of her shoes emphasises her self-assertive character with regards to her professionalism in conducting her duties as a law practitioner and her personality. The foregrounding of Jackie (Jacqueline) as a confident law practitioner, hints on her prudence and keen judgement of character which become very useful not only in her work as a lawyer but also as a friend and advisor of Chiedza and Lincoln later in the novel. The description of Lincoln and Jacqueline’s offices portrays them as successful law practitioners. This description creates curiosity about their success as it places them in direct spotlight of the readers.
The rigorous nature of law is brought out clearly through the symbol of the court regalia. The scrupulousness of law is also emphasised by Jacqueline’s conduct during working hours. She states that she does not “drink during working hours” thus indicating that she is a dedicated and diligent lawyer determined to serve justice where and when needed with a sober mind unclouded by the intoxicating effects of alcohol.
The chapter also promises a romantic development nuanced through the sensuous description of Jacqueline, Lincoln and Fiona Kanda. The description of Jacqueline’s physical features as a “shapely figure” and having “cute dimples” suggests the theme of love. Lincoln is described as an “attractive” man while Fiona is described as a “buxom” woman. Thus Chidavaenzi argues that amid all types of turmoils, love can transcend all obstacles and flourish since it knows no boundaries. Suspense is generated by Jacqueline’s inquisitiveness and the evasive stance taken by Lincoln regarding his intimate life. This leaves readers curious as to why Lincoln is enigmatic about his romantic life.
Retrogression is one of the key ideas of the text introduced in this chapter. Through flashback, Chidavaenzi hints on the ugly past that keeps haunting Lincoln and Chiedza. Both Lincoln and Chiedza are caught up in their own past characterised by horrendous experiences. While Chiedza’s past portrays her as a victim, Lincoln reminisces about his past in a regretful and shameful way hence the use of the phrase “wild years.” Through the stream of consciousness, Jacqueline reveals that Chiedza is living with HIV. The motif of the past experiences leaves the readers curious and wondering how the plot will unfold from the unpleasant past. Despite this backward orientation, the novel, through flashforward details, suggests a strong determination to shift from the past and secure a better life. This is shown by Lincoln’s determination and diligence. The use of the past tense when referring to the activities he used to do demonstrates his new phase of life characterised by transformation.
The reference to the unnamed girl who “had shatteringly changed” Lincoln’s life generates suspense. This reference functions both as a flashback as well as a foreshadow of Lincoln’s past and how the plot is going to unfold. Readers are left conjecturing who the unnamed girl is and how exactly she impacted Lincoln’s life. The foregrounding of Lincoln in this exposition establishes him as the protagonist of the novel. The writer lures the attention of the readers towards this central figure of the text through creating an idealised character who is able to conquer obstacles and emerge as a successful individual. This exposition, therefore, establishes the fact that The Ties that Bind is a story of victory. Readers, right from the very first chapter develop a sense of pity and admiration towards Lincoln who manages to shake off his ugly past and rise to become an epitome of success.
The description of “the architecture and trappings of the colonial era” emphasise the ugly past which constantly haunts Lincoln and Chiedza. It is this past which makes them feel inferior and unable to move forward especially with regards to starting a romantic life. The relics of the colonial era that decorate the office building are symbolic not just of the bondage of the Africans by foreigners but of Lincoln’s emotional and psychological imprisonment. His past continues to torment him and to control him.
Irony is brought out through the juxtaposition of traditional life and modernity. Jacqueline’s choice of a modern dish serves to portray her as a progressive character whereas Lincoln’s choice of a traditional meal demonstrates that he is still stuck in his past. Although Lincoln argues that traditional dishes are healthier than modern ones, Jacqueline is portrayed as healthier and happier than Lincoln, at least emotionally. The emotional diet which Lincoln feeds himself with does not provide him with adequate emotional nutrition. It is this emotional and psychological starvation which makes him take his job as a refuge. The writer comments that there is something “odd about his extreme self-containment.”
The introduction of a parallel plot involving Fiona Kanda serves to nuance the complexity of the life of the characters such as Lincoln, Chiedza, Jacqueline and her siblings. Fiona Kanda the acting CEO of Pentagon is adamant about the position of Pentagon Bank. She is desperate to save it despite its precarious status. She is portrayed as a flat static character purposed never to change her mind despite the overwhelming evidence supporting the liquidation of Pentagon Bank as the best measure to serve justice. Her unreadiness to alter her position suggests vulnerability. She functions as Lincoln’s foil since both of them are at some point in their lives, in denial. The parallel plot heightens the suspense of the text as its resolution is withheld until the last phase of the main plot. The interrogative session which takes place during the court session involving Fiona Kanda is indicative of the numerous questions that run in Lincoln’s mind regarding his past as well as his future. Henry Mazembe represents truth and justice. His objective assessment of the Pentagon’s situation is reflective of the self introspection which lies ahead of Lincoln. The adjournment of the court before the ruling of the matter creates suspense.
Corruption is cited as one of the societal vices that lead to the economic morass affecting the country. Lincoln laments the effects of corruption. Although he admits that economic sanctions have repercussions on the country’s economy, he places much of the blame on corrupt individuals. The chapter also brings out the theme of HIV through making reference to the AIDS levy which is misappropriated by the people who work for NGOs making the life of the affected difficult. Lincoln’s sensitivity concerning those affected by HIV indicates that he has deep understanding of HIV related issues. His comments add to the suspense already created in the chapter as readers develop curiosity over Lincoln’s keenness about HIV related issues.
The notion of dysfunctional families is brought out through Fadzai who, after marrying, never sets her foot at her Highfield home. The chapter suggests that family life is one of the central ideas of the text.
The theme of religion is revealed through Lincoln’s constant praise poured towards God. Lincoln’s constant reference to God’s miraculous deeds. His inexplicable position concerning religion makes him appear a mysterious character, thus adding to the sense suspense that pervades the entire chapter.
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