Cultural Appropriation
The theme of cultural appropriation centers around the ethical questions of who gets to tell certain stories and profit from cultural elements. It explores how cultural exchange can often turn into exploitation, particularly in creative industries like publishing. An example is the controversial publishing of a book titled "Native" written by a white author which is intended to be a representation of Native American culture even though the author lacks personal experience in the culture she's depicting. This situation raises questions about the ethics of profiting from stories and experiences that don't belong to one's cultural background. The novel uses this example to underscore how cultural appropriation is not only about aesthetics but also about the power dynamics and economic exploitation involved in the portrayal and commodification of marginalized cultures.
Friendship and Betrayal
The theme of friendship and betrayal delves into the complexities of female relationships, trust, and loyalty in a competitive corporate environment. One notable instance of friendship is the initial bond between Nella and Hazel when Hazel joins the publishing company. They bond over shared experiences as Black women in the workplace, providing emotional support for one another. However, the theme takes a dramatic turn when their relationship evolves into one of betrayal. Nella begins to suspect Hazel's true intentions leading to a series of tense and unsettling events and their once-strong friendship unravels as the characters grapple with deceit, secrets, and unexpected turns of loyalty. This theme underscores the fragility of relationships in high-pressure environments.
Stereotypes and Microaggressions
The theme of stereotypes and microaggressions highlights the subtler forms of racism and bias that Black individuals encounter in their workplaces. The novel presents instances where characters face stereotypes and microaggressions that subtly undermine their identities and contributions. For instance, Nella as the only Black employee in her publishing company at the beginning of the story experiences discomfort when she's repeatedly expected to be an authority on Black literature. She also encounters moments of casual racism such as being mistaken for other Black employees or having her opinions dismissed. These microaggressions emphasize how stereotypes and biases can manifest as seemingly harmless behaviors yet they accumulate over time while the characters struggle to assert their true identities while navigating an office plagued by racial misconceptions and preconceived notions.
