The Quest for Cultural Identity in Michael Ondaatje’s Running in the Family

Abstract

Michael Ondaatje's memoir, Running in a Family, is a profound exploration of cultural identity, diaspora, and the complexities of belonging. Ondaatje, a Sri Lankan-born Canadian writer, deals with his family's history and his own personal journey, weaving together multiple voices, narratives, and perspectives to create a rich tapestry of cultural hybridity. This paper examines Ondaatje's quest for self-discovery and cultural roots through the lens of postcolonial and diasporic experiences. It analyzes the narrative techniques employed in the text, such as the non-linear and fragmented structure, the blending of fact and fiction, and the use of multiple perspectives, which reflect the fragmented and fluid nature of cultural identities. The study explores the themes of identity, belonging, and cultural hybridity that permeate the memoir, including the notion of "in-betweenness" and the tension between homeland and diaspora. It investigates the role of family history, memory, and nostalgia in shaping Ondaatje's understanding of his cultural roots, as well as the interplay between individual and collective identities. Drawing from postcolonial and diasporic theories, the paper situates Running in a Family within the larger context of transnational identities and the negotiation of power dynamics and cultural hierarchies. It examines how Ondaatje's work challenges traditional notions of identity and belonging, and offers insights into the lived experiences of displacement and cultural hybridity. Through a comprehensive analysis of Ondaatje's memoir, the paper contributes to the ongoing discourse on cultural identity, diaspora, and the complexities of navigating multiple cultural spaces. It offers a nuanced understanding of the quest for self-discovery and the negotiation of cultural identities in a globalized world.