husband’s memories and possessions with this co-wife that was basically half her age. “The presence of my co-wife besides me irritates me. She installed in my house for the funeral, in accordance with tradition” (pg. 3). After the mourning period was over, Ramatoulaye continued on an emotional roller coaster. As a traditional Senegalese woman, she was expected to remarry and have a man take care of her and her children. She was offered to become the wife of her brother-in-law. However, Ramatoulaye decided against this idea, and instead resolved to be an independent woman like her dear friend, and live on her own. Aissatou represented the modern woman that Ramatoulaye was envious of. Therefore, after Modou passed away, it was the perfect opportunity for her to break free from the traditional Islamic ways. Moreover, she really had no desire to be in a polygamist relationship once again.So Long A Letter is an excellent novel, one that opens up our eyes to new cultures and different ways of life. Being an American, it is very interesting to read about polygamist relationships because that never happens in our society. In contrast, it is such a huge part of the Islamic culture. Ramatoulaye becomes a very strong person by the end of the novel, who was able to make the best of her tragic experience. ...
