A Meeting in the Dark: A Loss of Priorities In "A Meeting in the Dark" by Ngugi wa Thiong`o a young boy is facing a serious situation and is depicted in the process. All the characters have opposing personalities. This story shows how a loss of priorities can result in tragedy, John’s his relationship with his father, his selfishness, actions toward Wahumu, and irresponsibility resulted in the loss of a life, perhaps two. John’s relationship with his father is one that is fearful. In the beginning of the story John is thinking of how strict and judgmental his father, Stanley, is. He remembers why he fears