Identity, Migration, and Folklore in Jamaican Postcolonial Literature: A Reading of Paulette Ramsay’s “Aunt Jen”

This project examines the formation of identity in “Aunt Jen,” a coming-of-age novel set in post-independence Jamaica, by exploring how colonialism, migration, and folklore shape the protagonist’s sense of self. Centering on the character Sunshine, the novel unfolds during Jamaica’s political and economic upheavals of the 1970s, including the rise of Michael Manley and the People’s National Party, depicting both the hopes and disillusionments of a young nation. Sunshine’s story parallels these challenges as she navigates her fractured self-image, intensified by the absence of her mother, Aunt Jen, who emigrated to England to escape Sunshine’s father and her internalized colonial ideals. Drawing from scholars such as Stuart Hall, this analysis situates Sunshine’s journey within the broader Caribbean experiences of migration and colonial identity loss. I highlight how Sunshine’s identity is shaped not only by historical forces but also by folkloric tradition, as figures like Anansi and River Mumma serve as both narrative devices and psychological tools that help Sunshine cope with abandonment and reclaim her agency. By blending folklore with postcolonial themes, this project contributes to broader discussions on identity, migration, and the transformative power of storytelling in Caribbean literature.