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Frying Plantain By Zalika Reid Benta

723 Words3 Pages

Sohayb Faraj
Mr. Campbell
ENG-4U
July 23, 2023
In the novel "Frying Plantain" by Zalika Reid-Benta, the main character's journey to adulthood while trying to figure out her cultural identity is a compelling exploration of self-discovery and the challenges faced by first-generation Canadians from diverse backgrounds.
The main character's struggle with her cultural identity and fitting in, especially in a society with different cultures, is a central theme in "Frying Plantain." Throughout the novel, we see the protagonist, Kara, grappling with the complexity of her heritage and the pressure to conform to societal expectations. In Chapter 5, she articulates her feelings of not belonging anywhere: "I feel like I don't belong anywhere. My family …show more content…

Kara's grandmother plays a pivotal role in connecting her to their Jamaican heritage. In Chapter 3, her grandmother's stories and teachings deeply impact how she sees herself and her place in the world. These intergenerational connections are an essential aspect of cultural identity, and Reid-Benta adeptly explores how family traditions and oral histories can shape one's sense of self (Reid-Benta 31). Conversely, Kara also faces conflicting expectations from her parents, whose traditions sometimes clash with the Canadian way of life she experiences outside of home, as seen in Chapter 7. This internal conflict further contributes to her struggle with cultural identity, as she tries to navigate between the expectations of her family and her desire for assimilation into Canadian society. Reid-Benta's deliberate focus on the interplay between family, tradition, and cultural norms effectively emphasizes the complexity of cultural identity for first-generation Canadians. This exploration allows readers to empathize with Kara's challenges and contemplate the impact of family dynamics on shaping one's identity in a multicultural …show more content…

In Chapter 12, Kara's accent and cultural practices at school make her stand out, subjecting her to teasing and stereotyping from her peers. This experience is not uncommon for immigrant children, who often grapple with the pressure to conform to mainstream cultural norms while preserving their heritage (Reid-Benta 112). However, amidst these challenges, Chapter 15 portrays Kara finding solace in a friendship with another first-generation immigrant. This bond allows them to understand each other's shared struggles and provides a sense of support and validation, which is crucial for adolescents navigating their cultural identity. Reid-Benta's portrayal of Kara's school experiences effectively captures the reality faced by many first-generation Canadians. The novel prompts readers to reflect on the importance of empathy and understanding in creating a more inclusive and accepting

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