Jamaica Kincaid's Girl

Jamaica Kincaid’s story “Girl” tells of a conversation between a mother and her young daughter. The mother tells her of the proper ways to perform simple tasks such as “cook pumpkin fritters in vert hot sweet oil” (page 1725). However, the mother also tells her things such as “try to walk like a lady and not like the slut you are so bent on becoming” (page 1725). At first the reader is struck by the carelessness the mother presents this information to her daughter and the underlying tone of accusation that is within each line. One must realize this is the type of world we live in. Society has a social structure, and if one is to deviate from social normality then they are seen as different or outcasts. The mother within the story is attempting to provide her daughter with a normal life, and is bluntly telling her what she can and cannot do to save her from being shunned …show more content…
Regardless, “Girl” portrays the social pressure that are placed on adolescents from a young age. I believe “Girl” is a perfect title for this literary piece due to its powerful tone. A word as simple as “Girl” could mean a plethora of things and is open to interpretation. The title of “Girl” is vital to properly convey the meaning of the story. The literary piece isn’t meant to accuse the young woman of being a slut, it is meant to provide a small glimpse into the social and moral pressures that are placed on today’s youth. If one wants to be successful in life they must wear certain clothes, look a certain way, act in a socially acceptable manner. All of which is impossible to perform correctly. “Girl” should mean an innocent, young female whose is full of wonder and life. However, Jamaica Kincaid obliterated that meaning by forcing the reader to see what girl’s in this age are told to do. A child should be able to wear what they want, play as they want to and be