Analyzing Conflict Between Lucy and Mariah in Jamaica Kincaid's Novel
How does Jamaica Kincaid use literary elements and techniques to develop the conflict between Lucy and Mariah's different values?
Can you help me come up with a thesis statement for an essay that analyzes this conflict in the novel?
Thesis Statement:
In Jamaica Kincaid’s novel Lucy, the conflict that arises from the complex interaction of Lucy and Mariah’s different values is developed through the use of literary elements and techniques such as symbolism, imagery, and characterization.
Paragraph in support of the thesis:
One of the most striking examples of how Kincaid uses literary elements to develop the conflict between Lucy and Mariah is through the use of symbolism. For example, daffodils are repeatedly used throughout the novel to represent Mariah's values. When Mariah first mentions daffodils to Lucy, she describes them as "a close friend, a friend who had dared to go away for a long time and soon would reappear for their passionate reunion." This description suggests that Mariah sees daffodils as a symbol of hope and renewal, two values that are very important to her. However, Lucy does not share Mariah's positive view of daffodils. In fact, she has a nightmare in which she is chased down a narrow street by bunches of daffodils. This nightmare suggests that Lucy sees daffodils as a symbol of something dark and threatening, which is in direct contrast to Mariah's view of them.
The use of imagery is another way that Kincaid develops the conflict between Lucy and Mariah. For example, when Lucy is describing her childhood, she says that she was "made to memorize" a poem about daffodils. This image suggests that Lucy was forced to conform to Mariah's values, even though she did not agree with them. Additionally, when Lucy is describing her dream about the daffodils, she says that they "piled on top of me, until I was buried deep underneath them and was never seen again." This image suggests that Lucy feels suffocated by Mariah's values and that she is afraid of being swallowed up by them.
Finally, Kincaid also uses characterization to develop the conflict between Lucy and Mariah. For example, Lucy is described as being "independent" and "strong-willed," while Mariah is described as being "traditional" and "submissive." These descriptions suggest that Lucy and Mariah have very different personalities, which leads to conflict between them.
In conclusion, Kincaid uses a variety of literary elements and techniques to develop the conflict that arises from the complex interaction of Lucy and Mariah's different values. These elements include symbolism, imagery, and characterization. By using these elements, Kincaid is able to create a complex and nuanced portrayal of the conflict between Lucy and Mariah.
In Jamaica Kincaid's novel "Lucy," the conflict between the characters Lucy and Mariah is a central theme that drives the narrative forward. By examining the use of literary elements and techniques, we can gain a deeper understanding of how Kincaid constructs and develops this conflict throughout the novel. Symbolism plays a significant role in portraying the conflicting values of Lucy and Mariah. The recurring motif of daffodils symbolizes Mariah's optimism and connection to nature, while Lucy's nightmare about daffodils reflects her fear and discomfort with Mariah's values. This contrast in symbolism highlights the underlying tension between the two characters. Moreover, imagery is employed to evoke a vivid and emotional portrayal of the conflict. The image of Lucy being buried under a pile of daffodils serves as a powerful metaphor for her sense of suffocation and entrapment within Mariah's worldview. This imagery underscores the deep-seated differences between Lucy and Mariah, intensifying the conflict between them. Characterization further enhances the complexity of the conflict by delineating the distinct personalities of Lucy and Mariah. Lucy's independence and resilience stand in stark contrast to Mariah's traditional beliefs and submissive nature. These contrasting character traits contribute to the ongoing friction and clashes between the two characters throughout the novel. By exploring how Kincaid utilizes symbolism, imagery, and characterization to shape the conflict between Lucy and Mariah, readers can delve into the intricate layers of their relationship and the larger themes of cultural identity, tradition, and individuality in the novel. The nuanced interplay of these literary elements enriches the narrative, offering profound insights into the complexities of human interactions and the dynamics of conflicting values.