First Advisor

Leni Zumas

Term of Graduation

Spring 2024

Date of Publication

7-25-2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) in Creative Writing

Department

English

Language

English

Subjects

Experimental fiction, Fragmented, Nigeria, Non-linear, Socio-cultural commentary

Physical Description

1 online resource (iv, 145 pages)

Abstract

Teeth is an experimental novel draft that intricately weaves a non-linear narrative of the lives of two sisters, Lota and Jekein. Through their stories, the novel delves into the complex questions and experiences surrounding religious, patriarchal, and socio-political violence inflicted upon the female body and identity. Set in Nigeria, Teeth is presented by an omniscient narrator who offers critical perspectives on being, playing into the subtle nuances that define the lives of these women. The novel employs multiple points of view, echoing diverse perceptions of motherhood, nationalism, and belief in the context of authority and identity reclamation. Lota is depicted as fluid, a vessel through which readers perceive the subliminal, while Jekein adheres to traditional familiarity--both embodying reflections of pain, desire, and longing. The fragmented structure of the novel loops through time and grinds down upon itself, inviting readers to delve into the societal intricacies intersecting with the sisters' lives, brought vividly to life by their blood and desires.

Rights

In Copyright. URI: http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/ This Item is protected by copyright and/or related rights. You are free to use this Item in any way that is permitted by the copyright and related rights legislation that applies to your use. For other uses you need to obtain permission from the rights-holder(s).

Persistent Identifier

https://archives.pdx.edu/ds/psu/42588

Available for download on Friday, July 25, 2025

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