Neither East nor West: A Critical Study of Appropriation and Abrogation in Mohsin Hamin’s the Last White Man

Abstract

This study aims to explore the themes of abrogation and appropriation within Mohsin Hamid's novel "The Last White Man" through a postcolonial lens. Comprising an introductory segment, four subsequent chapters, and a concluding section, this thesis delves into various aspects of the novel. The introduction contextualizes the work by delving into the author's biography and his literary oeuvre, alongside an examination of relevant literature and prior research pertaining to the central themes of the thesis. Additionally, the introduction serves to elucidate the postcolonial theoretical framework that will underpin the analysis throughout the thesis. Within the novel, the concept of abrogation is epitomized by Anders' nuanced experiences, wherein he grapples with the complexities of his identity as a former member of the dominant white culture in his homeland. His transition to a new environment underscores the struggle to reconcile his past with the present realities shaped by a different cultural landscape. This perpetual state of flux is underscored by the myriad memories of his previous identity juxtaposed against the challenges posed by assimilation into a new cultural milieu. Through an in-depth examination of the text, the study reveals instances of both abrogation and appropriation woven into the narrative fabric of the novel. The central characters are profoundly impacted by their respective circumstances, which in turn shape their experiences of abrogation and appropriation. The social dynamics depicted within the novel illuminate the profound influence of societal rejection and power dynamics on individuals undergoing cultural transformation. In conclusion, the study posits that "The Last White Man" effectively portrays the themes of abrogation and appropriation, highlighting the multifaceted ways in which individuals navigate the complexities of identity within postcolonial contexts. Through the lens of postcolonial theory, the novel offers poignant insights into the enduring legacy of colonialism and its profound impact on individual and collective identities

Keywords: Abrogation, appropriation, transformation, white, colored skin