Girls at war and other stories

 Girls at war is a 1972 short story by Chinua Achebe. The narrative focuses on the essence of survival amidst the uncertainties of war. The story unfolds the intricacies of determination, resilience, and the human spirit's quest for survival through the Reginald Nwankwo, Protagonist. Reginald's encounter with a young woman Gladys on different occasions becomes a metaphor for life's unpredictable paths.

Quotes

 * They led and he followed blindly, his heavy chest heaving up and down in silent weeping ... it was the worst kind of madness, deep and tongue-tied.
 * From "The Madman" (pg. 10)​


 * We did not ask him for money yesterday; we shall not ask him tomorrow. But today is our day; we have climbed the iroko tree and would be foolish not to take down all the firewood we need.
 * From "The Voter" (pg. 16)​


 * I don't believe anybody will be so unlike other people that they will be unhappy when their sons are engaged to marry.
 * From "Marriage Is a Private Affair" (pg. 22)​


 * People create stories create people; or rather stories create people create stories.
 * From the story "The Sacrificial Egg"


 * When suffering knocks at your door and you say there is no seat for him, he tells you not to worry because he has brought his own stool.
 * From the story "The Voter"


 * War is war. The strong will always crush the weak. The only difference is that in the process some have made a lot of money and others a lot of misery.
 * From the story "Vengeful Creditor"


 * In his mind, he could see the ravages of war: destruction, suffering, hunger, and the grotesque faces of men turned beasts by the bitterness of combat.
 * From the story "Girls at War"