Chika Unigwe Opens Up On How A Former Pen Pal Returned After Her Writing Success Made Headlines

Nigerian author and professor Chika Unigwe has recounted a personal experience that taught her a lasting lesson about success and human nature after she emerged among the top three finalists in a national writing competition.

Unigwe, a professor of writing at Georgia College and State University in Milledgeville, Georgia, United States, shared the story while commenting on discussions surrounding the recognition of Anne Carson, who was awarded the 2026 Nobel Prize in Literature.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Unigwe recalled how a former pen pal, who was studying at a university at the time, abruptly stopped communicating with her because he considered her letters boring.

However, after she secured a top-three position in a national writing contest and her achievement was reported in newspapers, the young man unexpectedly reached out to her again.

The author said the letter began with the statement, “Everyone loves a winner,” a remark that left a lasting impression on her and shaped her understanding of how people sometimes respond to success.

Reflecting on the experience, Unigwe explained that it taught her about the benefits of achievement as well as the complexities of human nature. She also revealed that she chose not to respond to the letter.

Her recollection came amid conversations about Anne Carson’s recognition by an institution that had previously denied her tenure, drawing attention to how attitudes towards individuals can change following public recognition and professional success.

Unigwe’s story highlights the importance of recognising how some relationships may be influenced by personal achievement and the attention that comes with it.