Question

What would be a good thesis statement for Jamaica Kincaid's A Small Place?

Accepted Answer

A thesis statement for A Small Place might discuss that it begins like an advertisement for tourism but that it quickly becomes clear that Kincaid regards the problems of Antigua as having been caused by colonialism, of which tourism is a contemporary continuation.

Answer

A Small Place by Jamaica Kincaid begins with a description of what you will see if you arrive in Antigua as a tourist. It promises not just a small place, but a beautiful one, more beautiful than the other islands you have seen in the Caribbean, perfect for a relaxing holiday.
The opening lines, however, create a false sense of security, or perhaps of welcome. A Small Place is a bitter polemic which treats the reader with savage hostility. It is certainly not written with the intention of persuading the reader to come to Antigua on holiday. Kincaid has, in fact, the opposite intention. This could provide an interesting thesis statement for the book or an essay on it. In the former case, the thesis might be something like this:

Antigua is a beautiful country with many virtues and also many problems. However, while the virtues are its own, the problems were caused mainly by colonial oppression and enslavement, carried out by people like you. To come here as a tourist is to continue that oppression, so please stay away.

A thesis statement in an essay might be something like this:

A Small Place begins like an advertisement for tourism in Antigua. However, it soon becomes evident that its purpose is precisely the opposite, as Kincaid argues that holidaymakers from former colonial powers have no right to enjoy her homeland.

A Small Place

What would be a good thesis statement for Jamaica Kincaid's A Small Place?

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