RCL Post #3: Chapter 1 Reflection of Americanah

Americanah written by Chimamanda Angozi Adichie focuses on cultural differences through romantic relationships. Although I only read chapter 1, I was intrigued at the topics she discussed.

For starters, from the very first sentence of the novel, Adichie is very descriptive. I could picture every small detail about Princeton. I imagined it to be a gorgeous town, with perfectly green, freshly cut grass, bright flowers everywhere, wealthy people that were dressed for success walking around, and lots of street vendors. Because of how well she described the environment, it felt as if I was right there in the book, as one of the characters.

Secondly, because I am mixed- half African American, half Caucasian, I understand what she mentions about race. Although “slavery” is long gone, or legally anyway, racism is still in the air. Black people are still seen as if they are of the lower class because of natural background knowledge. Yet, I somehow also agree with what one of the guys she interviewed had to say. Sometimes, it’s not about race, it’s simply about class. People always judge others based off their class, meaning how much money they have and their position on the social ladder, whether we like to admit it or not, we cannot control it.

Thirdly, I found it relative that the main character had a blog, sort of like what I am doing for my class! It was cool to be able to relate in that way. I also had a tumblr that I was addicted to, and I can see why she thought getting so many comments was a big deal. It’s like a new connection to people!

I am a slow reader and find it hard to become interested enough to finish reading a book, but Americanah did leave an impression on me. It is nice to have someone address the topic of race, because it is not spoken about as much anymore.

3 Comments on RCL Post #3: Chapter 1 Reflection of Americanah

  1. Marissa Kandziolka
    09/19/2014 at 9:48 PM (10 years ago)

    I too liked that the book didn’t focus solely on race. While racial discrimination remains a large issue, socioeconomic discrimination seems to be on the rise. I liked that Adiche addressed the issue of social class in both American and Nigeria, and drew a comparison between the two countries. It seems like no matter where you live in the world, the rich always live a lifestyle similar to the wealthy of other countries. I liked also that she addressed the issue do what it means to be a part of the middle class, neither wealthy nor poor.

  2. Alexander Lee Myers
    09/18/2014 at 3:42 PM (10 years ago)

    I liked that the main character was blogging throughout the novel too! and I agree with your point about race being an issue in America, I touched on that in my blog too.

  3. Kylie Rose Doran
    09/18/2014 at 3:36 PM (10 years ago)

    I like the point you made about not only race but also class being a big issue in America. This was kind of touched upon in the novel when Obinze and Ifemelu struggled with making ends meet as immigrants in new countries

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