The story critically examines how patriarchal values are often upheld by women themselves. The mother acts as the enforcer of the patriarchy, urging her daughter to return to a potentially toxic environment to save "face." Abubakar highlights the tragedy that women are often conditioned to be the jailers of other women, policing behavior to fit into a male-dominated society. The "ties" that bind Firdaus are woven not just by men, but by the expectations of her mother and community.
The second half of the book advocates for female education as the primary tool for women to gain agency and independence. Resources for Study Breaking Ties By Sara Abubakar Summary Pdf
Written by Sara Abubakar, the first girl in her village to pass the matriculation exam, the novel is an inward critique of her own community. It gained significant attention for addressing sensitive topics like marital rape, unjust divorce practices, and the emotional toll of patriarchal hegemony. The story critically examines how patriarchal values are