Writer:- Jamaica Kincaid
Summary
The monologue “Girl” written by Jamaica Kincaid presents a mother’s instructive advice to her daughter, covering a wide range of topics from household tasks to social behavior. The monologue conveys a sense of strictness and adherence to societal norms, as the mother imparts rules and expectations on how her daughter should behave and conform. The daughter’s perspective, however, reveals a sense of rebellion and frustration, questioning the limitations and contradictions imposed upon her.
The advice provided by the mother carries a weight of tradition and cultural expectations, shaping the daughter’s behavior and defining her place in society. The monologue delves into themes of gender roles, cultural expectations, and the struggle for individuality within societal constraints. It prompts readers to reflect on the dynamics between mothers and daughters, the impact of societal expectations on personal identity, and the tension between tradition and self-expression.
Understanding
1. Who is likely the speaker of this piece?
ans: The speaker of the above monologue is the mother addressing her daughter.
2. Whom does the speaker address the orders?
ans: The speaker is addressing her daughter.
3. What is the relationship between the speaker and the addressee? How is their relation?
ans: The relationship between the speaker and the addresee is the speaker is the mother of the the addresse. The nature of their relationship appears to be providing guidance and attempting to shape the addressee’s behavior and understanding of the world.
4. Why shouldn`t the addressee squat down to play marbles?
ans: The speaker advises the addressee not to squat down to play marbles. Squatting down to play marbles might be seen as a behavior more commonly associated with boys or considered unladylike. The speaker may be attempting to teach the addressee to conform to societal expectations of femininity and proper behavior.
5. What typical Antiguan behaviors and dishes are mentioned in this passage?
ans: Several typical Antiguan behaviors and dishes are mentioned, providing glimpses into the cultural practices and culinary traditions of the region. The speaker advises the addressee on various aspects of daily life, including cooking practices and food choices. For example, they mention cooking pumpkin fritters in very hot sweet oil, soaking salt fish overnight before cooking it, and growing okra and dasheen. These references highlight the importance of local ingredients and traditional cooking methods in Antiguan cuisine.
Rhetoric/Language/Writing
1. What is humorous abou the piece? Why does the writer use humor?
ans: The humor lies in the juxtaposition of the speaker’s instructions and the underlying absurdity or exaggeration of some of those instructions. The writer uses humor to engage the reader, create a sense of irony, and subtly critique societal expectations and norms. The writer employs humor to challenge societal conventions and expectations imposed on the addressee, often employing a sarcastic or mocking tone.
2. What is the tone of the passage? How does the tone affect the flow of the dominant voice?
ans: The tone of the monologue can be described as authoritative, critical, and somewhat satirical. The speaker adopts a commanding and instructive tone, providing a long list of directives to the addressee. The authoritative tone emphasizes the power dynamics within the relationship and suggests that the speaker holds a position of authority or control over the addressee.
3. Does the piece give any indication that the mother thinks her daughter is going to be a slut?
ans: Yes, the monologue contains indications that the speaker, who is likely the mother, expresses concerns about her daughter becoming a “slut.” The mother advises the daughter to behave in certain ways, such as walking like a lady, to avoid being perceived as promiscuous. The line “on Sundays try to walk like a lady and not like the slut you are so bent on becoming” suggests the mother’s belief that her daughter has a tendency or desire to engage in behaviors associated with promiscuity.
This statement reflects the mother’s attempt to shape her daughter’s behavior and conform to societal expectations of femininity and morality. It reveals the mother’s preoccupation with controlling her daughter’s actions and preventing her from engaging in behaviors that may be deemed inappropriate or morally objectionable. The use of the word “slut” in this context is a derogatory term meant to shame and discourage the daughter from pursuing her own desires and interests.
Discussion
1. What rules may be applicable in the Carribean, but not in Nepal? Do you think they should be applicable in Nepal too? Why or Why not?
ans: Cultural norms, practices, and expectations differ across countries and regions, and what may be considered appropriate or necessary in one culture may not hold the same significance in another.
It is important to consider the cultural, social, and historical context of each country when evaluating the applicability of certain rules or behaviors. Nepal has its own unique cultural heritage and societal norms, which may shape expectations regarding dress, behavior, gender roles, and interactions. These expectations may differ from those found in the Caribbean, including Antigua.
In some part of Carribean, it is common for women to have multiple partner, while in Nepal, such behaviour is not accepted or encouraged. Similarly, dressing code for women in the Carribean may not be applicable in Nepal. In some part of Carribean, it is common to be in living-in relationship, while in Nepal, such behavior is strictly prohibited.
Instead of focusing on whether specific rules should be applicable in Nepal, it is more important to promote respect for diverse cultural practices and encourage discussions on gender equality, human rights, and social justice within the context of Nepal’s unique cultural landscape. This allows for a more nuanced understanding of the issues at hand and facilitates meaningful progress towards creating an inclusive and equitable society.
2. What do you think are a young girl`s experiences of growing up in Nepal? What kind of admonitions are in order in Nepal?
ans: Growing up as a young girl in Nepal, one’s experience is shaped by a combination of cultural traditions, societal expectations, and familial values. In Nepal, there are specific admonitions that are often emphasized to guide the behavior and upbringing of young girls. These admonitions can vary depending on factors such as regional customs, ethnic backgrounds, and individual family dynamics.
In Nepal, young girls may receive admonitions related to modesty and modest behavior, such as being mindful of their attire and avoiding actions that may be perceived as immodest or inappropriate within the cultural context. They may be encouraged to be respectful towards elders and authority figures, displaying polite and well-mannered behavior in their interactions. Respect for family values and traditions, including the importance of maintaining close-knit family ties and fulfilling familial responsibilities, is often emphasized.
It is worth noting that while some of these admonitions may serve to protect and guide young girls, others can perpetuate gender inequalities and restrict their freedom and opportunities. It is important to critically evaluate and challenge any admonitions that reinforce harmful gender stereotypes or limit the potential and agency of young girls.
3. What are your parent`s expectations about you?
ans: My parent`s have various expectations from me, influenced by cultural, societal, and personal factors. In general, my parent`s want me to grow up to be successful, happy, and responsible individuals who contribute positively to society. These expectations may differ based on cultural norms, individual beliefs, and the specific context in which the parents live.
My parent`s often have academic expectations for me, desiring me to excel in my studies and achieve good grades. Education is seen as a pathway to a successful future, and my parents encourage me to work hard, attend school regularly, and pursue higher education.
Additionally, my parents expect me to develop strong character traits and moral values. They want me to be respectful, honest, compassionate, and empathetic individuals who treat others with kindness and understanding. My parents often emphasize the importance of integrity, responsibility, and a strong work ethic.
4. Will these rules apply in the case of Antiguan boy? Why or Why not?
ans: The rules and expectations outlined by the speaker are specifically directed towards a young girl. The monologue reflects the cultural and gender-specific norms and expectations of a particular time and place. It is important to recognize that these rules and expectations may not be equally applied or relevant to Antiguan boys or boys in general.
The monologue primarily addresses the experiences and responsibilities associated with being a girl in the Antiguan society, emphasizing behaviors and actions that align with traditional gender roles. The rules and instructions given by the speaker are shaped by societal expectations placed upon girls, such as behaving in a ladylike manner, cooking, sewing, and conducting oneself in a certain way.
Therefore, it is unlikely that these rules would be directly applied to Antiguan boys in the same manner. The cultural expectations and gender roles for boys would likely differ, and they would be subjected to a different set of social norms, expectations, and responsibilities.
5. What does this piece tell us about the gender roles in Antigua.
ans: The monologue provides insights into the gender roles and expectations prevalent in Antigua. From the monologue, it is evident that traditional gender roles in Antigua assign specific duties and behaviors to women and girls. The speaker, presumably the mother, instructs the daughter on a wide range of topics including domestic chores, personal hygiene, clothing choices, manners, and interactions with men. These instructions reflect the prevailing view that women should prioritize their appearance, behavior, and domestic responsibilities in order to maintain a favorable reputation and be seen as “ladies.”
The monologue also highlights the existence of double standards in gender expectations. The daughter is discouraged from engaging in certain activities or behaviors, such as playing marbles or behaving assertively, which are implied to be more acceptable for boys. This suggests that there are different sets of rules and expectations for boys and girls, reinforcing traditional gender roles and reinforcing societal norms that perpetuate inequality between genders.
