Navigating Between Worlds: Diaspora Elements in the Works of Jhumpa Lahiri
Keywords:
diaspora, cultural identity, belonging, hybrid identities, Jhumpa Lahiri, Indian-American literature, intergenerational conflict, displacementAbstract
Jhumpa Lahiri, a prominent voice in contemporary literature, masterfully captures the nuances of the diasporic experience in her works. This paper delves into the intricate portrayal of diaspora elements in two of her acclaimed works, Interpreter of Maladies and The Namesake. Through close reading, the study examines themes of cultural identity, belonging, intergenerational conflict, and the negotiation of hybrid identities among first- and second-generation Indian immigrants in America. Lahiri’s sensitive exploration highlights the emotional and psychological impact of displacement and the search for meaning and connection in a transnational context, offering profound insights into the multifaceted experiences of the Indian diaspora.
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References
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