"My Mother Died at the Moment I Was Born" - Mother and Daughter in Jamaica Kincaid's "The Autobiography of My Mother"

Abstract

Xuela's mother died at the moment she was born. Thus she has never seen or known her mother. However, this essay argues that Xuela's relationship with her mother is what defines her and makes her into an independent, antisocial and by sexuality powerful woman. Their relationship is also a symbol of history, colonialism and language in the West Indies. Due to the relationship with her mother Xuela chooses to live an independent life in solitude and without love. She even decides not to have children of her own as she goes through multiple abortions. Her very strong sexual power states her independence and becomes at threat to other women. British colonialism is a recurrent theme in the novel, but is subordinate to the mother and daughter theme.