Displacement, Return, and Resistance in Susan Abulhawa’s Against the Loveless World (2019)

Abstract

This study focuses on the complex interplay between displacement, return, and resistance faced by the Palestinian people in Against the Loveless World (2019), written by the Palestinian American writer Susan Abulhawa. The first chapter specifically focuses on the Palestinian culture in both pre- and post-colonial eras, examining how culture is generated, disseminated, and consumed. It also analyzes how culture reflects and influences social and political power dynamics. In the context of this research, the field of cultural studies will be employed to scrutinize the portrayal of Palestinian culture and identity within the novel. The second chapter adopts a comprehensive analytical approach and is divided into three sections. The first section examines the concepts of displacement and exile focusing on how individuals and communities struggle with forced displacement. The second section aims to analyze how the characters navigate their desire to return to Palestine despite being forcibly expelled and living in exile. The third section examines how Palestinians resist the ongoing conflict, also highlighting their unique identity and the importance of voicing their experiences. These three sections will draw upon two prominent theoretical frameworks; the first is Edward Said's theory of exile, which will provide insights into the experiences and consequences of displacement on the Palestinian people. The second theoretical framework is Homi Bhabha's concept of unhomeliness, which explores the intricate connections between culture, identity, and resistance. It highlights the crucial role of unhomeliness in driving the Palestinian quest for return and self-determination. The findings demonstrate that the protagonist Nahr becomes a leading figure in Abulhawa’s narrative, defying oppressive forces and paving the way towards self-determination and liberation. Through her resilient spirit, Nahr strives to overcome the oppression that seeks to marginalize her and defy her existence on her own terms. The narrator also emphasizes Nahr’s IX desire to reclaim her heritage and culture which became a driving force in her resistance against the Israeli occupation. Therefore, the author successfully inspires the readers to resist the system of power and privilege the justice.