The poem "Akosua 'Nowa" by Joe de Graft explores themes of desire, gender roles, and

societal expectations. The poet employs vivid imagery and symbolism to convey a narrative
that reflects on the dynamics between men and women in a traditional African context. Here's
an analysis of the poem, focusing on symbolism and gender role perspectives:

Symbolism:

1. Guinea-fowl and Treasure:

 The guinea-fowl is used as a symbol for Akosua 'Nowa. Guinea-fowls are
known for laying their eggs in hidden places, and in this context, it symbolizes
Akosua's hidden and precious qualities.
 The "treasure" refers to Akosua's virtue, beauty, or desirability. It is something
of great value that is carefully guarded and not easily accessible.
2. Red Ant and Messenger:
 The red ant on the tree serves as a symbolic messenger. It is the intermediary
between the speaker and Akosua 'Nowa, carrying the question about her
"treasure."
 The red ant represents the natural world and its creatures, emphasizing the
connection between the human experience and the environment.
3. Loading the Gun:
 The act of loading the gun is a powerful symbol in the poem. It suggests a
response to a perceived threat or challenge. The speaker is preparing himself
for a confrontation, emphasizing the intensity of his desire for Akosua 'Nowa.

Gender Role Perspectives:

1. Akosua 'Nowa's Defiance:

 Akosua 'Nowa is portrayed as a woman who is aware of her desirability and is
unapologetically confident. Her response to the speaker's inquiry about her
"treasure" is dismissive and defiant.
 The poem challenges traditional gender roles by presenting a female character
who is not passive but rather assertive and in control of her own identity and
choices.
2. Masculine Pursuit:
 The speaker, described as the "Son of the hunter king," embodies traditional
masculinity. His reaction to feeling threatened or rejected is to arm himself
and assert dominance.
 The act of loading the gun symbolizes a masculine response to a perceived
challenge, reflecting societal expectations regarding male agency and
assertiveness.

Writer's Concerns:

1. Desire and Confrontation:

 The poem addresses the themes of desire and the lengths individuals may go
to in order to possess what they desire. The loaded gun signifies a potentially
violent confrontation driven by the speaker's desire for Akosua 'Nowa.
2. Societal Expectations and Power Dynamics:
  The poem sheds light on societal expectations regarding gender roles and the
power dynamics between men and women. Akosua 'Nowa's defiance
challenges conventional notions of female passivity, while the speaker's
aggressive response reflects ingrained expectations of male dominance.

In summary, "Akosua 'Nowa" explores the complexities of desire, gender roles, and societal
expectations through vivid symbolism and a narrative that captures the tension between a
confident woman and a man responding to perceived challenges in a traditional African
context.