Reconstructing Identity And Home: Exploring The Transformative Effects Of Return Migration In Caryl Phillips's A State Of Independence

Abstract

The research aims to analyze the issue of return in Caryl Philips' novel A State of Independence (1986), Our purpose is to investigate how the tale depicts physical return. It aims to explore how the protagonists' return to his home country impacts his sense of self and his knowledge of what home means to him by relying on diaspora theories connected to conceptions of identity and belonging. We will also look at the possibility that a complete comeback is not possible. The article establishes its theoretical framework by examining key notions of return, identity, and home. It subsequently highlights the theme of impossible return within Philips's A State of Independence. The analysis concentrates on the disillusioning and discouraging facets of return, which result in the protagonist becoming estranged, disheartened, and trapped in a state of ambiguity.