Mapping the Trajectories of Postcolonial Diasporic Experience A Reading of Meena Alexander s Select Works

Abstract

The postcolonial discourse includes an elaborate discussion and understanding of the contemporary literary dialogues of diaspora(s). It shows how the optic of race enables the colonial powers to represent, reflect, refract and make visible native cultures in inferior ways. The contemporary literary dialogues of diaspora in the postcolonial framework are an attempt to write back to the empire. Diaspora(s) in this paradigm represent(s) a progressive as well as a reactionary streak in them. Both the progressive and reactionary forms of diaspora, center on the idea of one s homeland as very real space from which alone a certain level of redemption is possible. The term diaspora and diasporic communities are increasingly being used as metaphoric definition for expatriates, expellees, refugees, alien residents, immigrants, displaced communities and ethnic minorities living in exile. Undeniably the ancient notion of diaspora has now become a fashionable term. newlineOnce exclusively used in a context-bound way including Jewish history and people, diaspora is now used on a general scale. The Indian diaspora plays a significant role in reflecting the complexities of diasporic experiences in literature. It aims to examine the displacement and the nostalgia for the homeland and alienation caused by displacement or dislocation as well as conflict between generations and cultural identity. The postcolonial diasporic women writers tend to portray the cultural dilemmas, the generational differences, and transformation of their identities during displacement. The spirit of exile and alienation enriches the diasporic writers to seek rehabilitation in their writings and establish a permanent place in English diasporic literature. newline newline