Topic
The Novel The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri
Instructions
Write an inquiry essay on the novel.
Include:
– Quotations from your Book Club Novel
– Quotations/Specific References from your Book Club Discussion
– Quotations/Specific References from your Book Club Responses
– Quotations from at least one Non-Fiction Essay
– Specific, Well-Developed References to Values, Beliefs, Biases and Experiences
– A Variety of Insightful World Connections, such as connections to news, media, politics, etc.
– The inquiry must be personal, literary, academic, and grounded in your book club’s communal experiences as well as in your own personal experience
– No secondary source research is required or allowed
Major Components of the Inquiry Essay:
– Length of paper – 1200 words (to an absolute MAXIMUM of 1500 words)
– Be sure to include process work such as the pre-book club organizers and post-discussion responses you complete for your book club sessions
– Develops a clear, first-person voice, tone, and methods of development to structure your essay
– Uses textual strategies, academic vocabulary and a literary framework effectively
– Embedded referencing and a Works Cited are required
Answer preview
The Namesake is a fictional novel by Jhumpa Lahiri that depicts both the émigré experience in United States, and the intricacy of family allegiances that inspires all human understanding. The experiences by the Ganguli family are relatable for many immigrants because they want to remain in touch with their culture, but conflict that arises, especially where the people around you do not understand the reason for maintaining a native culture. For instance, for Gogol he is not happy with his name, as it is a symbol of cultural alienation as the name is neither, Indian or American, but Russian.
Word count: 1300