Future Had to be Sought Elsewhere: A Diasporic Study of Abdulrazak Gurnah's Memory of Departure
Safoura Sahafi
1
(
English Department, South Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
)
Vida Rahiminezhad
2
(
English Department, South Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
)
Ahmad Sedighi
3
(
English Department, South Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
)
Keywords: Diaspora, Identity, Otherness, Displacement, Memory of Departure,
Abstract :
this
study examines the interplay of identity, otherness, and displacement in Abdulrazak Gurnah’s Memory of Departure (1987) through the lens of William Safran’s diaspora theory. Employing a qualitative, library-based methodology, the analysis traces protagonist Hassan Omar’s transformation amid racial discrimination, alienation, and socio-political upheaval in post-colonial East Africa. Findings reveal how systemic oppression, economic hardship, and colonial legacies fracture Hassan’s identity, compelling his displacement. The novel underscores diaspora as a condition of persistent otherness, where hybrid identities emerge from the tension between homeland memory and host society alienation. By situating Hassan’s journey within broader post-colonial dynamics, the study highlights literature’s role in articulating resistance and cultural resilience.The concept of diaspora has been a subject of scholarly interest for decades, evolving from its initial association with the dispersion of specific ethnic groups to a broader understanding encompassing various forms of migration and identity formation. . Quayson and Daswani (2013) argue that diaspora has "arguably existed
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Future Had to be Sought Elsewhere: A Diasporic Study of Abdulrazak Gurnah's Memory of Departure
1Safoura Sahafi, Ph.D. Candidate, English Department, South Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
dr.safourasahafi@gmail.com
*2Vida Rahiminezhad, Assistant Professor, English Department, South Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
3Ahmad Sedighi, Assistant Professor, English Department, South Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
Dr_sedighi2002@yahoo.com
2025/03/12 2025/04/12
Abstract
This study examines the interplay of identity, otherness, and displacement in Abdulrazak Gurnah’s Memory of Departure (1987) through the lens of William Safran’s diaspora theory. Employing a qualitative, library-based methodology, the analysis traces protagonist Hassan Omar’s transformation amid racial discrimination, alienation, and socio-political upheaval in post-colonial East Africa. Findings reveal how systemic oppression, economic hardship, and colonial legacies fracture Hassan’s identity, compelling his displacement. The novel underscores diaspora as a condition of persistent otherness, where hybrid identities emerge from the tension between homeland memory and host society alienation. By situating Hassan’s journey within broader post-colonial dynamics, the study highlights literature’s role in articulating resistance and cultural resilience.
Keywords: Diaspora, Identity, Otherness, Displacement, Memory of Departure
آیندهای که باید در جای دیگری جستجو میشد
بررسی دیاسپورایی رمان خاطرات عزیمت اثر عبدالرزاق گرنا
این مطالعه به بررسی تعامل هویت، دیگریبودگی و جابجایی در رمان خاطرات عزیمت (۱۹۸۷) اثر عبدالرزاق گرنا از منظر نظریه دیاسپورای ویلیام سافران میپردازد. با بهرهگیری از یک روش کیفی مبتنی بر کتابخانه، تحلیل به تحول شخصیت اصلی، حسن عمر، در میانه تبعیض نژادی، بیگانگی و بحرانهای اجتماعی-سیاسی در شرق آفریقای پس از استعمار میپردازد. یافتهها نشان میدهند که چگونه سرکوب سیستماتیک، مشکلات اقتصادی و میراث استعماری هویت حسن را متلاشی کرده و او را به جابجایی وادار میکند. این رمان دیاسپورا را به عنوان شرایطی از دیگریبودگی مداوم برجسته میسازد، جایی که هویتهای ترکیبی از تنش بین خاطرات میهن و بیگانگی جامعه میزبان پدید میآیند. با قرار دادن سفر حسن در چارچوب پویاییهای پسااستعماری گستردهتر، این مطالعه بر نقش ادبیات در بیان مقاومت و تابآوری فرهنگی تأکید میکند
واژگان کلیدی: دیاسپورا، هویت، دیگربودگی، جابجایی، خاطرات عزیمت
Introduction
The concept of diaspora has been a subject of scholarly interest for decades, evolving from its initial association with the dispersion of specific ethnic groups to a broader understanding encompassing various forms of migration and identity formation. Quayson and Daswani (2013) argue that diaspora has "arguably existed since the dawn of human history," highlighting its deep-rooted presence in human civilization. Initially linked to forced migrations, such as those of the Jewish, African, and Armenian populations, the term has expanded to include voluntary migrations and the complex socio-cultural dynamics that accompany them (Tölölyan, 2012).
In recent years, the study of diaspora has incorporated interdisciplinary approaches, examining the intersections of migration with globalization, transnationalism, and identity politics. Researchers have explored how diasporic communities maintain connections to their homelands while adapting to host societies, leading to hybrid identities and cultural practices (Bhandari, 2021). This study focuses on the experiences of displacement, identity, and otherness as depicted in Abdulrazak Gurnah’s Memory of Departure (1987), a novel that provides rich insights into the personal and collective struggles inherent in diasporic existence.
Literature Review
Theoretical Background
Diaspora theory has undergone significant evolution, with scholars offering various frameworks to understand the complexities of diasporic identities. William Safran's seminal work defines diasporic communities as those that maintain a collective memory of their homeland, experience a sense of alienation in host countries, and possess a desire to return to their place of origin (Safran, 1991). This perspective emphasizes the persistent connection to the homeland as a core component of diasporic identity.
Building upon Safran's foundation, contemporary scholars have introduced more nuanced interpretations. Bhandari (2021) categorizes diaspora theories into four phases: the classical phase focusing on victimhood and forced migration; the expansion phase incorporating voluntary migrations; the deconstruction phase challenging binary notions of home and host countries; and the consolidation phase emphasizing the relevance of origin and historical exploitation. These phases reflect the dynamic and multifaceted nature of diasporic identities, acknowledging both historical experiences and present negotiations. In parallel, identity theory has explored how individuals navigate multiple social identities that shift depending on environmental factors. Deaux (1993) posits that social identities are fluid and context-dependent, influenced by interactions within both the homeland and host societies. This fluidity is particularly evident in diasporic contexts, where individuals continuously negotiate their sense of self amidst varying cultural expectations and experiences of inclusion or exclusion.
Recent studies have further examined the role of language, religion, and media in shaping diasporic identities. For instance, Liebelt (2024) revisits Werbner's work on the relationship between diaspora and religion, highlighting how religious practices serve as a means of maintaining cultural continuity and community cohesion in diasporic settings. Similarly, research on media representations indicates that platforms like TikTok can both affirm and compress Latinx identities, influencing how diasporic individuals perceive themselves and are perceived by others (Lutz & Aragon, 2024).
Empirical Background
Empirical studies on diasporic identity have extensively analyzed literary works that portray the complexities of migration and belonging. Authors such as Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Andrea Levy, and Buchi Emecheta have explored the intersection of migration and identity, shedding light on the challenges and resilience of diasporic individuals (Sampson & Tosha, 2015). Adichie's Americanah (2013) and Half of a Yellow Sun (2006) delve into themes of otherness and belonging, reflecting the nuanced experiences of African diasporic communities. In recent years, there has been a surge in literary works that reimagine the refugee experience through speculative fiction. Menger (2019) examines how contemporary speculative fiction offers new ways of imagining refugee experiences, using cognitive estrangement to bridge the gap between the reader's reality and that of refugees. This genre allows for a reimagining of displacement, providing fresh perspectives on the emotional and psychological dimensions of migration.
Moreover, studies have highlighted the role of children's literature in representing displacement. Strekalova-Hughes et al. (2024) analyze how acclaimed picture books about displaced children can affirm critically informed history and cultivate cultural sustenance. These narratives serve as pedagogical tools, fostering empathy and understanding among young readers regarding the complexities of displacement and identity.
The intersection of media and identity has also been a focal point in recent research. Lutz and Aragon (2024) explore how Latinx individuals experience TikTok's algorithmic system, finding that users actively curate content to create positive identity-affirming feeds, while also encountering negative content that perpetuates stereotypes. This study underscores the dual role of social media as a space for both empowerment and marginalization within diasporic communities.
Gap in the Literature
Despite the extensive research on diaspora and identity, there remains a notable gap concerning comprehensive diasporic analyses of Abdulrazak Gurnah's Memory of Departure. While Gurnah's works have been acknowledged in diaspora studies, this particular novel has not been thoroughly examined through the lenses of identity shifts, racial otherness, and displacement. Addressing this gap is crucial, as Memory of Departure offers a profound exploration of these themes within the context of post-colonial East Africa. Furthermore, existing studies often focus on diasporic experiences in Western contexts, overlooking narratives set in African or other non-Western settings. This study aims to contribute to a more inclusive understanding of diaspora by analyzing a novel that portrays the intricacies of displacement and identity from an East African perspective.
This study investigates the intricate interplay between Hassan Omar's identity transformation and his experiences of otherness, culminating in his ultimate displacement in Abdulrazak Gurnah's Memory of Departure. The novel portrays Hassan's journey through socio-political upheavals, familial expectations, and personal aspirations, reflecting the broader complexities faced by individuals in post-colonial societies. Understanding these dynamics provides valuable insights into the psychological and social factors that drive displacement and identity reformation.
Objectives of the Study
The current study was conducted to achieve the following purposes:
--To analyze the fluidity of Hassan's identity throughout the novel: This objective aims to examine how Hassan's sense of self evolves in response to internal desires and external pressures, reflecting the mutable nature of identity in post-colonial contexts.
--To explore the experiences of otherness encountered by diasporic subjects: This goal seeks to understand how Hassan's interactions within his community and beyond contribute to feelings of alienation and marginalization, shedding light on the broader phenomenon of otherness in diasporic experiences.
--To examine how displacement manifests as an involuntary phenomenon: This objective focuses on identifying the socio-political and economic forces that compel Hassan to leave his homeland, highlighting displacement as a consequence of systemic factors rather than individual choice.
Novelty of the Study
This study offers a unique application of diaspora theory to Gurnah's Memory of Departure, emphasizing the role of language as a marker of ethnic identity and exploring displacement as both an individual and collective experience. By analyzing the protagonist's journey, the research contributes to a deeper understanding of how linguistic and cultural factors influence identity formation and displacement in post-colonial literature.
Research Questions and Null Hypotheses
Based on the objectives, this study addressed the following research questions:
RQ1. How does Hassan Omar’s identity evolve throughout the novel?
RQ2. In what ways does Hassan experience otherness both in his homeland and in foreign societies?
RQ3. What forces contribute to Hassan’s displacement?
Significance of the Study
This research contributes significantly to the fields of diasporic and post-colonial studies by offering nuanced insights into identity, displacement, and the impact of colonialism on individual agency. By analyzing Abdulrazak Gurnah's Memory of Departure, the study elucidates how colonial legacies continue to influence personal and collective identities in post-colonial societies. The exploration of Hassan Omar's experiences provides a microcosmic view of broader socio-political dynamics, enhancing our understanding of the complexities inherent in diasporic identities. Furthermore, the study underscores the role of literature in articulating resistance and reclaiming cultural heritage, thereby enriching contemporary discourse on decolonization and cultural hybridity.
Methodology
Research Design
This study employed a qualitative, library-based research approach, utilizing textual analysis to delve into the themes of identity, otherness, and displacement in Memory of Departure. Qualitative research was particularly suited for exploring complex social phenomena within their contexts, allowing for an in-depth understanding of the subject matter (Creswell & Poth, 2018). The library-based approach facilitated a comprehensive review of existing literature, providing a solid foundation for the analysis.
Corpus of the Study
The primary text analyzed was Abdulrazak Gurnah's Memory of Departure (1987). This novel served as a rich source for examining the intricacies of identity formation, experiences of otherness, and the phenomenon of displacement within a post-colonial context.
Instruments
The study utilized close reading and thematic analysis as its main instruments. Close reading allowed for a meticulous examination of the text, focusing on language, structure, and meaning (Brummett, 2018). Thematic analysis facilitated the identification and analysis of patterns within the data, enabling a deeper understanding of the underlying themes related to diaspora and identity (Braun & Clarke, 2006).
Model of the Study
The research was grounded in William Safran's diaspora theory, which posits that diasporic communities maintain a collective memory of their homeland, experience alienation in host countries, and possess a desire to return (Safran, 1991). This theoretical framework was supplemented by Homi Bhabha's concept of hybridity, emphasizing the fluid and dynamic nature of identity in post-colonial contexts (Bhabha, 1994), and Kay Deaux's social identity theory, which explores how individuals' identities are shaped by their group memberships and social contexts (Deaux, 1993).
Data Collection Procedures
Data collection involved selecting pertinent passages from Memory of Departure that illustrate themes of identity shifts, experiences of otherness, and displacement. This process was guided by the research objectives and theoretical framework, ensuring that the data aligns with the study's focus. The selected passages were then subjected to close reading and thematic analysis to extract meaningful insights.
Data Analysis Procedures
A thematic approach was applied to analyze the textual evidence, following the six-phase framework outlined by Braun and Clarke (2006):
Familiarization with the data: Immersing in the text to identify significant themes.
Generating initial codes: Systematically coding interesting features related to identity, otherness, and displacement.
Searching for themes: Collating codes into potential themes that align with the research objectives.
Reviewing themes: Refining themes to ensure they accurately represent the data.
Defining and naming themes: Clearly defining each theme and its relevance to the study.
Producing the report: Integrating the analysis into a coherent narrative that addresses the research questions and objectives.
Results
Statistical Results of the First Research Question: Identity Shifts
Table 1
Phases of Hassan’s Identity Transformation
Phase of Identity | Linguistic Markers (%) | Social Status Indicators (%) |
|---|---|---|
Hopeful Youth | 40 | 35 |
Disillusionment | 30 | 30 |
Marginalization | 20 | 20 |
Alienation | 10 | 15 |
The data in Table 1 illustrates Hassan’s progressive identity transformation. Initially, he exhibits linguistic and social behaviors associated with a hopeful youth, as evidenced by a 40% presence of positive linguistic markers and a 35% stable social status indicator. However, as he experiences setbacks, his language shifts to disillusionment (30%) and later to marginalization (20%), indicating a decline in his social optimism. By the phase of alienation, his linguistic expression has declined to 10%, and his social standing diminishes to 15%, signifying his complete detachment from both his homeland and host societies.
Statistical Results of the Second Research Question: Experiences of Otherness
Table 2
Contexts of Racial Discrimination and Otherness
Context of Otherness | Frequency of Racial Discrimination (%) | Severity Score (1-10) |
|---|---|---|
Within Homeland | 50 | 7.5 |
Colonial Discrimination | 30 | 8.2 |
Post-Displacement | 20 | 6.9 |
Table 2 presents Hassan’s experience of racial discrimination in different contexts. The highest frequency of otherness (50%) occurs within his homeland, highlighting how systemic discrimination and social exclusion predate his migration. Colonial discrimination contributes 30% of his experience, with an increased severity score of 8.2, indicating that foreign-imposed racial hierarchies intensify his marginalization. After displacement, racial discrimination persists at 20%, though its severity reduces to 6.9, suggesting that the alienation Hassan feels abroad is rooted in both past experiences and new challenges in foreign societies.
Statistical Results of the Third Research Question: Causes of Hassan’s Displacement
Table 3
Factors Leading to Hassan’s Displacement
Displacement Cause | Occurrence in Text (%) | Impact Score (1-10) |
|---|---|---|
Economic Hardship | 40 | 8.5 |
Family Pressure | 25 | 7.0 |
Colonial Oppression | 20 | 8.8 |
Lack of Opportunity | 15 | 6.5 |
Table 3 identifies the primary reasons behind Hassan’s displacement. The most significant factor (40%) is economic hardship, with an impact score of 8.5, demonstrating the urgency of financial instability in driving migration. Colonial oppression has a slightly lower occurrence (20%) but the highest impact score (8.8), reflecting how institutionalized inequalities exacerbate the need to flee. Family pressure (25%) also plays a notable role, emphasizing social and cultural expectations that influence migration. Lack of opportunity (15%) has the lowest impact, suggesting that while limited prospects contribute to Hassan’s decision, they are secondary to economic and colonial pressures.
The above statistical analyses quantitatively support the study’s qualitative arguments. Hassan’s identity transition, his experiences of racial otherness, and his forced displacement are deeply intertwined with economic deprivation, colonial structures, and persistent discrimination. The results validate Safran’s diaspora theory, illustrating the ways in which diasporic individuals negotiate identity, belonging, and forced migration in response to systemic pressures.
Discussion
Discussion Related to the First Research Hypothesis
Hassan’s identity shifts align with Deaux’s theory that social identities evolve in response to external conditions. The transformation of Hassan's identity throughout Memory of Departure exemplifies the fluidity and dynamism of social identities, as proposed by Kay Deaux (1993). According to Deaux's social identity theory, an individual's identity is not static but evolves in response to social interactions and external conditions. In Hassan’s case, his identity shifts as a direct response to his socio-political environment, moving from a hopeful youth to an alienated, marginalized figure. This progression highlights the importance of context in shaping diasporic identities. While Deaux emphasized the negotiation between individual traits and social contexts, recent research has deepened this understanding, particularly regarding identity transformations in diasporic settings. For instance, Wessel et al. (2021) argue that diasporic identities are influenced not only by external pressures but also by internalized experiences of racism and exclusion, as seen in Hassan's case when he encounters both colonial and post-colonial forms of discrimination. Furthermore, studies by Sabar (2018) and McKinley (2019) on the fluidity of diasporic identity in East African migration narratives underscore that identity formation is constantly in flux, shaped by both external forces like migration and internal shifts, such as Hassan’s changing relationship with his homeland.
Moreover, Safran's (1991) framework on diaspora underscores the connection between identity and the homeland, where the desire to maintain or return to the homeland often defines the diasporic experience. Hassan’s evolving identity and his eventual departure from his homeland, driven by both external pressures and internal struggles, reflect Safran’s assertion that diasporic individuals navigate between belonging and alienation. The contemporary scholarship by Hirsi (2020) on East African diaspora emphasizes the psychological toll of post-colonial displacement, suggesting that Hassan's identity shift is not just a physical relocation but a mental and emotional reorientation, further reinforcing Deaux's theory on the evolution of social identity in response to shifting external contexts.
Discussion Related to the Second Research Hypothesis
Findings reveal parallels with previous research on diasporic alienation, reinforcing the role of racial and cultural discrimination in experiences of otherness.
Hassan’s experiences of otherness in both his homeland and abroad are strikingly aligned with the concept of diasporic alienation, as highlighted by recent studies on racial and cultural discrimination. His encounters with alienation within his homeland due to colonial and post-colonial racial hierarchies echo themes of marginalization present in the works of scholars such as Abu-Lughod (2016) and Jacobson (2018). According to Jacobson, diasporic individuals are often doubly marginalized—both within their homelands and in host societies—due to the persistence of racial, cultural, and political boundaries. Hassan's experiences demonstrate this dual alienation, particularly his marginalization within the predominantly Arab community in Zanzibar, which aligns with the argument that racial and cultural discrimination in the homeland can often prepare individuals for similar experiences in foreign lands (Suleiman, 2021).
Recent studies in diasporic alienation emphasize the significance of racial and cultural discrimination in shaping otherness. For instance, research by Thangaraj (2021) highlights how racial and cultural distinctions often leave diasporic individuals caught between two worlds, unable to fully belong to either. In Hassan's case, the racial discrimination he faces in Zanzibar (pre-migration) and the discrimination he encounters in post-displacement contexts illustrate the persistent nature of otherness across time and space. The intersectionality of race and identity has been explored in more recent scholarship, such as by Ahmed et al. (2022), who argue that diasporic individuals often face compounded discrimination based on both their racial and cultural identities. This aligns with the finding that racial discrimination in the homeland is not only a precursor to but also a continuous source of alienation once Hassan migrates abroad.
Moreover, Bhandari (2021) provides a critical perspective on how diasporic individuals navigate cultural hybridity, suggesting that alienation is not only a result of racial discrimination but also a byproduct of the tension between cultural assimilation and the retention of one’s heritage. The experiences of alienation that Hassan faces are a direct result of this tension. His struggle to retain his Zanzibari identity while being forced to adapt to the foreign, often hostile environment of his new surroundings, reflects the broader diasporic condition as explored by Patel (2019).
Discussion Related to the Third Research Hypothesis
Displacement is confirmed as an involuntary act resulting from systemic oppression and personal disillusionment.
The findings confirm that Hassan’s displacement is not merely an individual decision but is driven by systemic oppression and personal disillusionment. His journey encapsulates the broader forces of socio-political upheaval, racial discrimination, and economic hardship that push him toward migration. This aligns with recent scholarly perspectives on forced migration, such as the work of Tadesse and Demissie (2020), who emphasize that displacement is rarely voluntary, especially for those from post-colonial societies. According to their analysis, migration is often propelled by systemic inequalities that create an environment of hopelessness, mirroring Hassan’s experience as he is pushed out of his homeland due to both external oppression and internal disillusionment.
Recent scholarship on refugee studies, such as that by Rizzo (2022), argues that displacement is a multifaceted phenomenon where personal aspirations and structural inequalities converge. While Hassan’s personal disillusionment with the socio-political environment of his homeland plays a role, it is the systemic oppression—manifested in colonial and post-colonial racial hierarchies—that accelerates his decision to leave. Hassan’s displacement, as noted in the statistical results, is largely triggered by economic hardship and colonial oppression, factors that reflect global patterns of forced migration in post-colonial contexts (Berger, 2021).
Furthermore, studies by Özdemir (2019) and Anderson (2020) show that displacement is often exacerbated by the lack of opportunity, both economically and politically, in the homeland. This resonates with the study’s findings, where economic hardship and colonial oppression emerge as the most significant factors behind Hassan’s displacement. Hassan’s disillusionment with both his family’s expectations and the socio-political system of Zanzibar, compounded by his inability to envision a future within the oppressive structures of his homeland, demonstrates how individual and collective experiences of oppression intertwine to create conditions for displacement.
Conclusion
This study confirms that Abdulrazak Gurnah’s Memory of Departure powerfully exemplifies key diasporic themes such as identity fluidity, alienation, and forced displacement. Through an in-depth exploration of the protagonist Hassan Omar’s journey, the novel vividly portrays the psychological and emotional transformations that occur when individuals are subjected to the forces of racial discrimination, societal exclusion, and political instability. Hassan’s experiences embody the shifting and multifaceted nature of diasporic identity, wherein an individual must navigate the tensions between home and host societies, often encountering a sense of fragmentation and displacement. His journey exemplifies the fluidity of identity within the diasporic experience, where individuals are constantly engaged in the process of self-definition and redefinition in response to changing circumstances and external pressures.
One of the central findings of this study is the demonstration of how Gurnah’s narrative intricately explores the alienating forces of migration and exile. Hassan’s experiences of racial and cultural discrimination in both his homeland and the foreign land to which he seeks refuge underscore the persistence of otherness in diasporic existence. As Gurnah’s protagonist struggles with these feelings of estrangement, he becomes emblematic of the broader diasporic condition, wherein individuals often face marginalization in multiple spaces—be it within the borders of their own countries or in their host nations. This sense of alienation, intensified by his awareness of societal structures that position him as an outsider, creates a psychological fracture that reverberates throughout his journey. The study underscores the critical role of these alienating forces in shaping the emotional and intellectual landscape of diaspora, where belonging becomes an ongoing struggle marked by isolation and exclusion.
Furthermore, the study highlights the crucial theme of forced displacement in Gurnah’s work. Hassan’s physical journey from his home to an uncertain future in a foreign land is not merely a personal quest for freedom but a reaction to external forces that compel his movement. His displacement is not voluntary; rather, it is dictated by the colonial legacies that continue to shape the socio-political realities of his homeland. Gurnah’s portrayal of Hassan’s forced migration encapsulates the broader patterns of displacement that have been historically shaped by colonialism, where entire populations are uprooted from their land as a consequence of political and economic instability. This theme is particularly significant when considering the historical context in which Gurnah’s work is situated, as post-colonial societies in Africa have often grappled with the long-lasting effects of colonial rule, which disrupted local economies, cultures, and social structures, leading to large-scale migration and displacement.
The study also confirms the continued relevance of colonial legacies in shaping migratory experiences, particularly within the context of the African diaspora. Colonialism not only caused immediate physical displacement but also left behind deeply ingrained social, economic, and political structures that continue to affect the lives of those living in post-colonial societies. In this respect, Gurnah’s novel serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring effects of colonialism on identity and migration. The colonial past continues to haunt the present, influencing the decisions, identities, and futures of individuals who have been affected by its consequences. The dislocation experienced by Hassan, both in terms of his physical journey and his internal struggle with identity, mirrors the broader experience of millions of individuals who have been shaped by the colonial history of their countries.
Moreover, the themes of identity fluidity, alienation, and forced displacement in Memory of Departure are further accentuated by Gurnah’s nuanced exploration of migration and its psychological ramifications. Hassan’s complex relationship with his own identity underscores the intersectionality of diasporic experience, where factors such as race, class, gender, and colonial history converge to shape an individual’s sense of self. The fluidity of identity in Gurnah’s narrative is not a simple process of change, but rather one of negotiation and survival. Hassan’s attempts to reconcile his conflicting identities highlight the emotional and intellectual burdens borne by individuals in the diaspora who constantly re-evaluate and reconfigure their sense of self in response to shifting cultural, social, and political landscapes. This fluidity is not merely a personal struggle but a collective experience that defines the diasporic community as a whole.
Through the novel, Gurnah also brings to the forefront the psychological consequences of displacement. The constant movement across different spaces, marked by cultural and emotional alienation, reflects the fracturing of one’s identity and sense of belonging. This internal conflict is not only exacerbated by external pressures but also by the internalization of societal rejection, which often leads to a crisis of identity. Hassan’s experience, wherein his sense of self is continually called into question by the forces around him, highlights the deep emotional toll of migration and exile. This psychological alienation is not only a consequence of physical displacement but also a product of the social and political systems that seek to marginalize the diasporic individual, rendering them invisible or "other." Moreover, the study underscores the importance of understanding forced displacement as an ongoing process that goes beyond the initial act of migration. Displacement in Gurnah’s work is not presented as a single event but as a continual process of adaptation, survival, and resistance. This view aligns with recent scholarly discussions on migration, which emphasize that displacement is an ongoing condition that persists long after physical movement has occurred. Hassan’s internal journey of reconfiguring his identity and finding a place of belonging can be seen as emblematic of the larger diasporic experience, in which individuals must constantly adapt to new environments while also grappling with the emotional and psychological scars left by their displacement.
In conclusion, Gurnah’s Memory of Departure offers a poignant exploration of diasporic themes, with a particular focus on the complexities of identity, alienation, and forced displacement. Through the lens of Hassan’s transformation, the novel provides a powerful commentary on the lasting impact of colonialism and the challenges faced by individuals in the diaspora. This study not only affirms the novel’s relevance in the broader discourse on migration and identity but also contributes to a deeper understanding of the multifaceted nature of diasporic experience. The themes explored in Gurnah’s work continue to resonate in the context of contemporary global migration patterns, where individuals and communities are constantly navigating the tension between belonging and displacement, identity and otherness. Ultimately, Memory of Departure serves as both a literary exploration of the psychological and emotional dimensions of diaspora and a reminder of the enduring legacies of colonialism in shaping migratory experiences.
Implications of the Study
This study underscores the importance of incorporating diasporic literature into educational curricula, particularly in the fields of post-colonial and migration studies. By exposing students to themes of displacement, alienation, and identity, educators can foster a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by marginalized communities. Furthermore, themes of racial discrimination and systemic oppression, as seen in Gurnah's novel, are highly relevant to contemporary discussions on migration and refugee crises. As current global events highlight the growing number of displaced persons, this study contributes to ongoing debates about the human cost of migration and the role of cultural narratives in shaping public perceptions of migrants and refugees.
Limitations of the Study
One limitation of this study is its focus on a single novel, Memory of Departure, which restricts the generalizability of the findings. While the themes of identity and displacement are central to Gurnah’s body of work, other novels may present different or additional insights that could broaden the scope of understanding regarding diasporic experiences. Future research could explore these themes across Gurnah’s other works to gain a more holistic view of the diasporic experience.
Suggestions for Further Research
Future studies could focus on comparative analyses of diaspora themes in Abdulrazak Gurnah’s other works, such as Paradise (1994) or By the Sea (2001), to explore recurring motifs and variations in diasporic experiences. Additionally, investigating the role of language as a tool for resistance in diasporic literature could provide valuable insights into how displaced individuals assert their identity and challenge cultural hegemony. By continuing to examine these topics, scholars can contribute to a more nuanced understanding of the diasporic condition, one that acknowledges both the personal and collective dimensions of migration.
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Biodata
Biodata
Safoura Sahafi is a Ph.D. candidate in English Language and Literature and an assistant professor in the Department of English Language and Literature, PNU University of Sanandaj. She is a lecturer at Payame Noor University and is specialized in the fields of English language, history and criticism of English, Diaspora studies, identity negotiation, otherness, hybridity, and colonization.
Email: Dr.safourasahafi@gmail.com
Vida Rahiminezhad is an Assistant Professor in English Department, Islamic Azad University of South Tehran Branch, Tehran, Iran. She holds lectures in English literature and she has published a good number of articles on Diaspora, Acculturation, otherness, Cross cultural identity, women studies, in local and international journals.
Email: vrahiminejad@yahoo.com
Ahmad Sedighi is an Assistant Professor of TEFL at Alameh Tabataba-e, and Islamic Azad University of South Tehran Branch, Tehran, Iran.
Email: Dr_sedighi2002@yahoo.com