Exit West Essay Flashcards

Study Notes

Introduction

Exit West (2017) is a novel by Mohsin Hamid addressing the modern refugee crisis.
The title symbolizes mass migration from conflict zones to the Western world.
Main characters Nadia and Saeed journey from the Middle East to various locations, including Mykonos, London, and Marin, California.
The novel critiques the marginalization of refugees, advocating for a borderless society through character development, setting, and symbolism.

Body Paragraph 1

Hamid intentionally omits the name of Nadia and Saeed's home country to universalize the refugee experience.
This anonymity encourages readers to empathize with refugees, imagining similar crises in their own lives.
Each new country encountered by the characters refuses assistance, highlighting first world nations' selfishness.
The response of the English government to refugee influx in London reflects xenophobia and fears regarding the impact of newcomers on society.
Hamid emphasizes the need for mutual support in addressing humanitarian crises.

Body Paragraph 2

Characterization is crucial in illustrating Hamid’s views on refugees and emigration.
Nadia embodies a progressive, adaptable individual, contradicting stereotypes of Middle Eastern women.
Initially represented wearing a burqa, her choice is practical, aiming to avoid harassment rather than conform to tradition.
Nadia’s independence, living alone contrary to cultural expectations, showcases her resilience and challenges societal norms.
Through Nadia, Hamid highlights the diversity and adaptability of individuals across different backgrounds.

Body Paragraph 3

Saeed embodies the migrants resistant to change, illustrating Hamid's belief in the necessity of adaptation for survival in a new society.
He remains attached to his traditional lifestyle and experiences reluctance to embrace new environments.
Saeed’s imagery of a child seeking his mother symbolizes his desire to return to his original home.
This contrast between Saeed and Nadia represents the struggle between tradition and adapting to new realities.

Body Paragraph 4

Symbolism of magical doorways represents freedom and opportunity for refugees, defying established borders.
These doors allow access to nations that typically enforce strict immigration laws, advocating for a world without borders.
The doorways serve as a metaphor for an individual's ability to adapt, differentiating between characters like Nadia and Saeed.

Body Paragraph 5

Juxtaposition of light and dark symbolizes the divide between migrants and first world countries.
Darkness signifies the plight of refugees, representing fear and struggle, while light denotes the privilege experienced by wealthier individuals.
This contrast highlights the challenges faced by refugees seeking safety and asylum amidst societal rejection.

Conclusion

Exit West conveys a call for a borderless utopia to aid asylum seekers in today's world.
Hamid utilizes characterization, setting, and symbolism to provoke thoughtful discussion on human rights and equality for all.

Description

Explore the themes and concepts in Mohsin Hamid's novel 'Exit West' through these flashcards. Delve into the symbolism of the title and the portrayal of the refugee crisis as experienced by the main characters, Nadia and Saeed. This quiz will help reinforce your understanding of the book's important messages.