EXAMINING INTERSECTIONALITY THROUGH AMMA BONSU’S NARRATIVE IN EVARISTO’S FUSION FICTION NOVEL, GIRL, WOMAN, OTHER

Abstract

Abstract

This study investigates the intersections of race, gender, class and sexuality in Bernardine Evaristo’s acclaimed fusion fiction novel Girl, Woman, Other. Fusion fiction, a genre distinguished by its amalgamation of various literary styles and cultural traditions, offers a unique perspective for examining the novel's diverse characters and scenarios. Focusing on the character Amma, this study employs Kimberle Crenshaw's intersectionality framework to explore the multifaceted aspects of her identity and experiences. The critical study highlights how Amma’s transition from a fringe theatre activist to a prominent figure in the mainstream cultural sphere exemplifies the intricacies of discrimination and underscores the significance of an intersectional approach to feminist and antiracist politics. Evaristo’s narrative vividly portrays Amma’s systemic oppression, stressing the necessity of considering multiple identity factors to comprehend and address these challenges effectively. This research demonstrates how Evaristo's novel, with its rich social tapestry and varied character portrayals, creates a compelling narrative space for exploring the intersections of various forms of oppression within the context of fusion fiction. Ultimately, this study enhances our understanding of Black women's lived experiences and underscores the pivotal role of intersectionality in contemporary feminist and antiracist discourse.