This document entails an in-depth analysis of Imogen 'Genie' Zula Nyoni, the protagonist in 'The Theory of Flight,' by Siphiwe Gloria Ndlovu. It focuses intimately on how she portrays the novel's most prominent theme of Transcendence. This analysis also includes specific quotations from the novel. ...
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Auerello Matthaeus Pillay Reddam House Waterfall 12 – Mrs de Carvalho
Genie as an Instrument of Transcendence in TTOF
Unravelling the depths of human connection, The Theory of Flight, by Siphiwe Gloria
Ndlovu, presents the protagonist, Imogen ‘Genie’ Zula Nyoni, as a being who utilises
her space to grow. Given that the story of Genie is “the story of many others,” Ndlovu
suggests characters in her novel exist in confluence. From this, it can be inferred that
Genie is closely related to other characters in the novel, acting as a medium through
which they too can overcome their struggles. This is evident in Genie’s
transcendence beyond hardship. Moreover, her uplifting influence is displayed in her
connection and support for Vida, helping him heal. Additionally, Valentine Tanaka
assists Genie in fulfilling her personal agency. In doing so, he too, overcomes the
orders from the Man Himself, the primary antagonist and Head of State. In this light,
Ndlovu underscores the power of human interaction in activating personal
development.
Genie demonstrates her vitality to the theme of transcendence, by exercising
escalating personal agency in choosing her own ending. Genie is riddled with a
variety of illnesses, “unwelcomed guest[s],” progressively worsening her condition. At
first, Genie “[tries] not to breathe” as the sojas “gang-raped, shot and pillaged their
way through the compound.” However, instead of allowing herself to be “cloaked in
shame,” like Jestina, who raises her on The Beauford Farm and Estate, Genie states
“this is not an ending of [her] choosing.” This reflects her progressive rise to power.
Moreover, she commits to deciding her own fate, “from now on.” In this regard, Genie
uses her will, to supersede the abuse she witnesses and endures.
In addition to overcoming the abuse with which she is met, she transcends past
sickness. Upon being diagnosed with HIV and being told she has only five years to
live, she still reclaims her narrative, stating “Five years is long enough for [her] to do
something good with [her] life.” This echoes her defiant, “unbreachable” attitude.
Furthermore, her determination to decide her own ending culminates at the end of
narrative, whereby she flies away “on a giant pair of silver wings,” mimicking the
journey of her parents. By committing to making a positive difference in her
interactions, despite being met with a then detrimental disease, Genie demonstrates
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