Introduction
Earl Lovelace’s The Dragon Can’t Dance is a national allegory set in the days leading up to Trinidad and Tobago’s independence from Great Britain. The novel follows the residents of a small village as they prepare for their annual carnival celebration. The main characters represent different communities within the nation or different paths that the country might take in the future. The paper discusses the character’s representation of Trinidad and Tobago.
Discussion
In a national allegory, each main character represents a different community within the nation or a different path the country might take in the future. Simmonds (2019) states that Aldrick represents hope for Trinidad and Tobago’s future. He is young and full of energy, and he wants to make something of himself. Sylvia represents the traditional values and culture of Trinidad and Tobago. She is a hard worker and is very proud of her culture. Guy represents the path that Trinidad and Tobago could take in the future. He is a talented musician and is very successful. Further, Fisheye represents the dark side of Trinidad and Tobago. He is a criminal and is very dangerous. Pariag represents the potential of Trinidad and Tobago. He is a talented artist and has a lot of potential. Miss Cleothilda represents the wisdom of Trinidad and Tobago. She is a very kind and wise woman. Additionally, Philo represents the love of Trinidad and Tobago. He is a very passionate man and loves his country very much.
Conclusion
In conclusion, The Dragon Can’t Dance is an essential novel for Trinidad and Tobago. It is a reminder of the country’s potential and speaks to its people’s strength and determination. The characters are incredibly relatable, and their struggles feel very real. The novel is a reminder that, despite Trinidad and Tobago’s challenges, the country has a lot of potential.
References
Simmonds, A. M. (2019). The Complexities of Carnival Identities in Earl Lovelace’s The Dragon Can’t Dance. Cankaya University Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences, 13(1), 39-49.