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Exploring Situational Authenticity in Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's Americanah: Can Ifemelu Remain Authentic While Adapting to American Culture?$7.99
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In Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s novel Americanah, the term “Americanah” is more than just a slang word; it encapsulates a complex cultural and social phenomenon experienced by Nigerian immigrants in America. This document delves into the intricacies of situational authenticity as it relates to ...
“Americanah” is a slang term commonly found in Nigeria; it is used when referring to
someone who is “pretending to belong,” primarily to Nigerian immigrants going to America who
change some of their mannerisms and ways of life once they get to America. Americanah by
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie introduces the slang term when Ranyinudo and Priye talking to
Ifemelu before she leaves for America; Ranyinudo says, “She’ll come back and be a serious
Americanah like Bisi,” (Adichie 70). Throughout Ifemelu’s time in America, her ability to adjust
to the society around her is tested; her ability to be “Americanah.” Eventually, this ability to
adapt and change to fit into her surroundings becomes a natural skill to Ifemelu; despite this,
Ifemelu’s authenticity stays the same because her values never change.
Though Ifemelu may have fit into “Americanah,” she did not lose her authenticity.
At first, Ifemelu was shocked at the little things that went into being “Americanah,” such
as her time spent in the car with Aunty Uju. “Aunty Uju’s cell phone rang. “Yes, this is Uju.” She
pronounced it you-joo instead of oo-joo.” (109). Despite Ifemelu’s shock, It did not take her long
to adjust to being “Americanah.” It is a necessary part of being an immigrant in America. If one
does not walk, talk and act like a born-and-raised American, one will not receive as much respect
from those born and raised in America. Because of this, many immigrants are passed over.
Ifemelu quickly adjusts to this truth and changes her Nigerian accent so she can “pretend to
belong.” By definition, this makes Ifemelu “Americanah.” As the book progresses, Ifemelu is
forced into many other situations where she must continue adjusting to fit in.
Is it possible to be “Americanah” and authentic simultaneously? On the one hand, no,
because once a person lies, they can never stop lying regardless of how big or small of a lie. This
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