REPRESENTATION OF IMMIGRANTS IN AFRICAN FICTIONS: A LITERARY READING OF CHIMAMANDA ADICHIE'S AMERICANAH AND YAA GYASI'S HOMEGOING

This study examines the portrayal of African immigrant experiences in contemporary literature through a comparative analysis of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s Americanah and Yaa Gyasi’s Homegoing. Employing the postcolonial theory, the research explores how these authors navigate the complex terrain of immigrant life, investigating the experiences themselves and the storytelling techniques that breathe life into their narratives. Through textual analysis, the study illuminates how immigrant journeys are portrayed in the narratives, encompassing themes of cultural identity, alienation, and racism. Additionally, the research investigates the authors’ use of narrative structure and character development, revealing their pivotal roles in bringing immigrant experiences to life. Key findings reveal that Americanah and Homegoing shed light on the transcultural identity of African immigrants in their texts. They also portray how African immigrants are segregated and face racial discrimination in a White-dominated society. Besides, it was found that both Adichie and Gyasi utilized the third-person point of view and non-linear narrative structure to present their stories. This comparative analysis enriches our understanding of African immigrant narratives in contemporary literature. It underscores the role of storytelling in elucidating the immigrant experience and provides a deeper appreciation of the socio-cultural themes embedded in these compelling narratives. Ultimately, the study contributes to the broader discourse on immigrant literature and the profound voices of African writers in shaping our understanding of migration and identity.