Who is to Blame for Things Falling Apart?

Can any one group or individual be blamed for 'things falling apart' in Achebe's story?   And what falls apart, really?   Tell us what you think and why.

Just saying...(In Response to the First Blog)

Many of you have said your selection of which books to read first has been based on what others have said about them.  That's fine.  But, remember that ultimately your response to each book is a personal one.  You may like a book that someone else disliked, or vice versa.  I have found that to be the case time and time again; I recall luckily having gone ahead and read a novel that someone else thought not too much of - she told me it wasn't good -  and I enjoyed it thoroughly; it resonated deeply with me; made me weep; and it is one of my unforgettable books.

What do you think about the changing interaction between writer and reader?

Click on the link below and read Ghosh's blog about how literary festivals and other public engagements are changing the ways in which writers and readers interact, and the implications for their roles in the writing / reading process.   Personally, I cherish meeting writers and every chance I get I like my students to meet with them, too.   Our first Trinidad and Tobago literary festival (Bocas Lit Fest 2011) was an awesome experience.

However, Ghosh raises some valid points.   What is your response to what he says?
http://amitavghosh.com/blog/?p=2361

Why Does It Matter?

Why does it matter knowing the history of the novel?