What is an important theme in "Once Upon a Time"? the unity between all peoples

the disintegration of South African society

the birth of a new nation

the importance of self-reliance

The disintegration of South African society.

Explanation:

Nadine Gordimer's "Once Upon A Time" revolves around the racist "Apartheid" time of South African society where the whites 'dominate' the blacks. the story focuses on the societal issues between the two races and how it is detrimental to the overall lives of the people involved.

One important theme of the story is racism, "Apartheid" which seemingly dictates who is superior and who is not. The huge divide in not only the living spheres of the two groups of citizens but also in their approaches to society is indicative of the discriminative attitude and perception of the people, especially with the whites claiming themselves to be superior and 'civilized'. The book deals largely with the colonial mindset of the whites while also the structural bigotry apparent in the mindset of the people.

Thus, the correct answer is the second option.