Historical Context
A Brighter Sun is a novel by Trinidadian author Samuel Selvon. The first noticeable theme in the book is the historical context of the events that happen to the main characters. Both local and world history are moving parts in a singular machine, yet global events are secondary, or are in the periphery, in contrast to the personal histories of the characters. This concept articulates how even the grand history we all share as a civilization becomes minimized by events and experiences that personally affect us as individuals.
Amelioration and Struggle for Improvement
Another theme in the novel is the idea of amelioration, or the act of trying to improve our surroundings and condition. There is a Shakespearean, or perhaps biblical, allegory of mortals struggling to gain a higher plane of existence. This struggle's end goal is to usher in a new era—a spiritual revolution of sorts—but the past keeps the main characters anchored to their present circumstances.
Modernity and Multi-Ethnic Society
The main characters try to feel their way into modernity whilst navigating through old traditions. Another theme of the book is the concept of a multi-ethnic society, which is a sign of modern phenomena such as urbanization and globalization.
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