Cultural Clashes
The theme of cultural clashes emphasizes the conflict between the protagonists' Jamaican cultural history and the realities of their new existence in London. Enid's unwavering adherence to Jamaican traditions frequently puts her at odds with her daughters, Del and Viv who are growing up in a British society that questions customary traditions. Enid, for example, disapproves of Del's decision to pursue further education, considering it superfluous and even demeaning to her cultural norms. Del's drive to assert her individuality contrasts with her mother's expectations of obedience as evidenced by their opposing views on marriage. The conflict between Enid's desire to preserve the past and her children's hopes for a different future becomes a microcosm of the larger cultural clash encountered by immigrants.
Memory and Nostalgia
The theme of memory and nostalgia examines the protagonists' deep ties to their Jamaican birthplace as well as the emotions elicited by their memories. Enid, Del, and Viv all struggle with a deep love for Jamaica which becomes a symbol of comfort and familiarity among the trials of their new existence in London. Enid's stories about the coconut tree and her memories of Jamaica's natural beauty serve as examples of nostalgia, emphasizing her devotion to her past. The entrance of the character Broderick from Jamaica brings back a flood of memories, especially for Enid who is forced to confront the passage of time and the changes that have occurred since they left. The theme of memory and nostalgia is further illustrated by the use of music like the calypso songs that evoke memories of their homeland. These instances emphasize the characters' complex relationship with their past as they navigate the juxtaposition of cherished memories and the realities of their current circumstances.
Racism and Prejudice
The play depicts occasions in which the protagonists face racial bigotry and discrimination, underlining the difficulties of adapting to a society that frequently sees them as outsiders. Del's experience of being neglected and undervalued at her employment because of her ethnicity is one example of systemic racism in the workplace. Enid's hesitation to embrace certain aspects of British society derives from her understanding of racial biases as evidenced by her fear about Del's engagement to a white man. In her interactions with Broderick, the character Viv faces the preconceptions that people have about black men. These examples demonstrate how racism pervades different facets of life and impacts the characters' interactions and decisions.
Family Dynamics
The theme of family dives into the intricate interactions, struggles, and bonds between the characters in the Jamaican family. Enid's role as matriarch emphasizes her efforts to retain traditional values and steer her daughters' lives based on her own experiences. Her authoritative demeanor causes problems with her daughters. For example, her criticism of Del's dating choices and job goals reveals the disparity in priorities. Del's resistance and desire for independence cause friction with Enid while her poor relationship with Viv displays sibling rivalry and mutual misunderstandings. Torn between her mother's expectations and Del's rebelliousness, Viv attempts to mediate between them. The concept is further portrayed by the character Broderick who reintroduces a piece of their Jamaican history, generating difficulty and reflection on their family history.
