What is the theme of “When Greek Meets Greek” (by Samuel Selvon)?
Thank you for the link. I do know what themes are, I just don’t know how to describe that story.
I was thinking that its theme could have something to do with people’s judgement of others, but I’m not so sure.
If you’d like to read it, I might be able to find a link to it. You absolutely don’t need to read it though, that was just an offer!
Another way to think of the theme is this:
What is the underlying/secret message the author wants his/her readers to understand?
The short "When Greek Meets Greek" theme seems to have ties with survival; Because when you think about how Ram had to change his persona just to find a place to live that ties with survival. Then to think the other character Chan has been posing as a Indian when he is Jamaican and has been living at the property of the landlord for a while. It just shows how the two are trying to adjust to a prejudice society to survive.
Idk how to word it shortly hope it helps
To determine the theme of a literary work like "When Greek Meets Greek" by Samuel Selvon, we can start by reading and analyzing the story. By understanding the key ideas, messages, and symbols presented in the narrative, we can identify the underlying theme.
1. Read the story: Begin by reading Selvon's "When Greek Meets Greek" carefully, paying attention to its plot, characters, conflicts, and resolution. Take notes on any recurring motifs or ideas that emerge.
2. Identify key ideas: Look for recurring themes or concepts throughout the story. Consider the main characters' motives, struggles, and relationships, as well as any societal or cultural issues that the narrative addresses.
3. Analyze the story: Reflect on the story's events and conflicts, and try to interpret their meaning. Consider the characters' actions, dialogue, and interactions, and think about how these elements contribute to the overall message or theme of the story.
4. Consider the historical and cultural context: Think about the time period and setting of the story and how they might influence its themes. Consider any social, political, or economic factors that might be relevant to the themes discussed in the narrative.
In the case of "When Greek Meets Greek" by Samuel Selvon, the story explores themes of cultural identity, assimilation, and the tension between different immigrant communities. It portrays the clash between Greek and West Indian characters, highlighting the challenges faced by immigrants in a multicultural society and the struggle to fit into a new culture while preserving one's identity.
By closely analyzing the story using the steps outlined above, you can arrive at a more nuanced understanding of its themes.
I haven't read this work, sorry.
https://literary-devices.com/
Look up Theme here (use the left column of links as the table of contents) and read carefully.
Then let us know what you learn.
This is one of the replies on the topic Theme:
If the theme is the lesson or message that the reader/audience gets after a story/play, then, the theme can’t be “love”. They didn’t “learn love”.
They learned something ABOUT love. What did they learn?
“Love makes you do dangerous things”
“Love is worth fighting for”
“Immature love has life-altering consequences”
THOSE are themes, not one-word “topics” about what the story is about.
https://literary-devices.com/content/theme/