The novel How Beautiful We Were concludes with a definitive and somber resolution for the community of Kosawa, as a judge ultimately forces its residents to relocate. This ending underscores the long-term failure of their struggle against the powerful oil company that had polluted their land.
The Fates of Key Characters
As the story draws to a close, the lives of central characters diverge significantly, painting a complex picture of success, sacrifice, and disillusionment:
- Juba and Nubia: These characters achieve a life of considerable luxury, a stark contrast to the hardships faced by the majority of their community. Their prosperity highlights the varied impacts of the community's struggle and the compromises made.
- Thula: Despite her relentless dedication, Thula continues to live a modest lifestyle as an activist school teacher. Her efforts, though valiant, are ultimately depicted as insufficient to alter the overarching fate of Kosawa. The Children, narrating the events, poignantly reflect on her unwavering commitment, stating, "One angry woman did everything, and she failed." This powerful sentiment, conveyed on page 343, encapsulates the immense personal cost and the tragic futility of her individual fight against overwhelming forces.
The Final Decision for Kosawa
The climax of the narrative sees the residents of Kosawa being compelled to leave their ancestral land. This forced displacement, mandated by a judicial decision, serves as the final, devastating blow, signifying the complete loss of their home and the end of their prolonged battle for environmental justice. It emphasizes the enduring power imbalance between the community and the corporate and governmental entities involved.
