Cultural Assimilation in the works of Jhumpa Lahiri

Abstract

The aim of this research paper is to highlight and understand the assimilation process displayed by various characters in the works of Lahiri. Lahiri discusses the tussle of adoption, adaptation and assimilation between her characters with special reference to the first and second generation Bengali immigrants.

“Assimilation refers to part of the adaptation process initially proposed by Jean Piaget. Through assimilation, we take in new information or experiences and incorporate them into our existing ideas.”

So what does assimilation mean these days? Assimilation in Latin means “simulare”. It means to make similar. Immigrants are expected to become like other Americans, a process metaphorically defined as a melting pot. But that means in practise remains unsettled. Americans as a whole have always been a heterogeneous population - racially, religiously and regionally. So the question arises as in, how does an outsider fit into such a diverse nation? For some immigrants, assimilation is based on pragmatic considerations like achieving some fluency in the dominant language, some education or economic success, some familiarity with the country’s history and culture. For yet others, the whole idea of assimilation is wrongheaded and integration - a dynamic process that retains the connotation and individuality is seen as the better model. It’s a “salad bowl” than a “melting pot”. Each ingredient keeps its flavour, even as it mixes with others.

The consensus on whether assimilation should be about national principles or national identity. Those who believe in assimilation emphasize a belief in the constitution, rule of law, in life, liberty and pursuit of happiness, ethics and equality. But for those who believe that assimilation is a matter of identity, it means abandonment of all traces of your heritage.