In-Between Spaces: Diasporic Trauma and the Negotiation of Feminist Identity in Jhumpa Lahiri's Select Works

Abstract

Jhumpa Lahiri, with Interpreter of Maladies and The Namesake, has established herself as a masterful storyteller and a prominent figure in world literature. Her works portray the complexities of cultural dislocation, making her a celebrated author in contemporary literature. Jhumpa Lahiri's stories explore themes of immigration, marital issues, motherhood, and the emergence of new women. Her narratives depict Indian immigrants grappling with cultural identity and belonging in the United States. Lahiri explores the complexities of marriage, revealing the tensions and disillusionments that accompany it. Motherhood is shown as a transformative yet challenging experience. Her female characters reflect the struggles and successes of women as they forge new paths, striking a balance between tradition and modernity. Through detailed storytelling, Lahiri illuminates the human condition, capturing the nuances of identity, relationships, and cultural dislocation. Her works provide deep insights into the immigrant experience and women's lives. This paper explores the multifaceted roles of women in contemporary literature, examining their experiences as immigrants, mothers, and wives. By analysing these representations, it seeks to illuminate the complexities and evolution of feminist thought, ultimately contributing to a nuanced understanding of the intersections between social justice and feminist validation.