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2.1 Journey to the Interior: Yusuf’s Failure of Searching for Home in Paradise

Pheng Cheah notes that the Bildungsroman “is the most appropriate symbolic expression” of the search to alleviate the sense of homelessness experienced by those without a sense of community or nation as a consequence of the onslaught of colonialism (242). In Paradise, however, Yusuf’s sense of homelessness is not only the consequence of German colonial invasion but also the consequence of the fact that “there is no preexisting community for the individual to be reconciled to” (Cheah 243). 

In his journey to the interior, Yusuf constantly thinks about his parents and home, which reflects his desire of searching home and a sense of belonging: 

[H]e sat silently with himself, numbed by guilt that he had been unable to keep the memory of his parents fresh in his life. He wondered if his parents still thought of him, if they still lived, and he knew that he would rather not find out. He could not resist other memories in this state, and images of his abandonment came to him in a spate. They all condemned him for self-neglect. (P 174) 

2.2 Journey to Nairobi: Hassan’s Failed Independence in Memory of Departure 

In Memory of Departure, Hassan’s journey to Nairobi is a journey of seeking the future. According to Hassan, “[a]fter three years of independence, it was clear that the future had to be sought elsewhere” (MD 29). Disappointed by the depressing domestic environment, Hassan wants to leave for England to further his studies and seek new opportunities for development. For lack of money, Hassan decides to visit his uncle in Nairobi first to ask for financial help. 

In Memory of Departure, Hassan’s journey to Nairobi is a journey of seeking the future. According to Hassan, “[a]fter three years of independence, it was clear that the future had to be sought elsewhere” (MD 29). Disappointed by the depressing domestic environment, Hassan wants to leave for England to further his studies and seek new opportunities for development. For lack of money, Hassan decides to visit his uncle in Nairobi first to ask for financial help. Hassan’s leaving is a sign that the colonized African people have not succumbed to the colonizers. Hassan’s father and sister Zakiya try to help him get a passport in Immigration Department. Hassan’s mother helps him prepare the gift for uncle Ahmed, teaching him the best way of greeting his uncle to get his help. When Hassan leaves, his father repeatedly tells him “Don’t come back with nothing” (MD 75).  

Chapter Three Growth in “National-Historical Time”: Personal Growth and National Crisis ........................... 47

3.1 Pre-Colonial and Colonial History, Identity Crisis and Yusuf’s Arrested Development in Paradise .................... 48

3.1.1 Stories Told by Merchant and Caravan Leader: History of Trade in East Africa and Yusuf’s Failed Education ................... 50

3.1.2 Stories about the Germans: Yusuf’s Twisted Growth and His Coming-of-Age Story as a National Allegory .............. 52

Conclusion ................................ 64

Chapter Three Growth in “National-Historical Time”: Personal Growth and National Crisis