Abstract

This study addresses the depiction of cultural hybridity and its ramifications on self-identity within Nadia Hashimi's "Sparks Like Stars" (2021), focusing on the protagonist's challenges and opportunities in navigating multiple cultural identities. The research problem centers on understanding the complex interplay between cultural hybridity and individual identity formation in a postcolonial context. Significantly, This approach adds to questions on how literary autobiographical narratives manage cultural hybridity in contemporary society.  Employing Peter Morey's theoretical framework on cultural representation, the study aims to dissect the nuanced portrayal of the protagonist's journey towards self-identity, amidst the backdrop of inherited and acquired cultural influences. The novel's intricate exploration of cultural hybridity's impact on identity and the protagonist's struggle and growth as a postcolonial identity symbol.The study concludes by affirming the essential role of cultural hybridity in shaping complex individual identities, thereby enriching the discourse on postcolonial studies and multicultural literature.

Key Words

Cultural Hybridity, Self-Identity, Nadia Hashimi, "Sparks Like Stars", Peter Morey, Postcolonial Discourse

Introduction

The concept of hybridity, a term that has traveled across various disciplines, embodies the complexities and nuances of cultural, biological, and technological amalgamation. Its etymological roots can be traced back to the Latin word "hybrida," referring to the offspring of a tame sow and a wild boar, highlighting its initial association with the crossing of different species. Over time, the application of the term has significantly broadened, transcending its initial biological confines to encompass the blending of cultures, identities, and technologies. This expansion reflects an evolving understanding of identity as inherently multifaceted and fluid, challenging the notion of purity whether in lineage, culture, or technological innovation (Online Etymology Dictionary, n.d.).

In contemporary discourse, hybridity has become a pivotal concept in the study of postcolonialism, multiculturalism, and globalization, offering insights into the processes through which identities are constructed and negotiated in contexts marked by historical asymmetries of power and cultural exchange (Morey 2000). The importance of hybridity in postcolonial contexts, arguing that it facilitates the emergence of new cultural forms and practices that challenge established hierarchies and binaries. This perspective underscores the role of hybridity as a site of resistance and innovation, where the interaction of diverse cultures leads to the creation of new meanings and identities. Similarly, in the realm of technology, the idea of hybridity captures the merging of digital and analog, human and artificial intelligence, reflecting an era where technological interfaces and human experiences are increasingly intertwined (Bhabha, 1994).

The quest for self-identity in a hybrid world is a complex journey that involves navigating the intersections of multiple affiliations and influences. As individuals and societies grapple with the challenges and opportunities presented by cultural and technological hybridity, questions of authenticity, belonging, and transformation become central. The hybrid identity, therefore, emerges as a dynamic construct, continuously shaped and reshaped by external forces and internal negotiations. It embodies the tension between the global and the local, the past and the present, challenging the binary oppositions that have traditionally defined identity formation.(Morey, 2004)

Hybridity, with its emphasis on mixing and fluidity, offers a valuable framework for understanding the multiplicity of self-identity in the contemporary world. It encourages a move away from essentialist notions of identity, towards a recognition of the complex, often contradictory, influences that shape individual and collective identities.(Laihonen, & Huhtamäki, (2023). As such, hybridity not only reflects the reality of our interconnected, globalized world but also provides a lens through which to envision new possibilities for coexistence and creativity.

The exploration of hybridity and the quest for self-identity reveal the intricate ways in which identities are forged in the interstices of cultural, biological, and technological intersections. (Pradeepa, & Chitra,2022).  This perspective challenges the rigid boundaries that have historically segregated disciplines, cultures, and communities, advocating for a more inclusive and dynamic understanding of identity. In doing so, it opens up a space for dialogue, innovation, and transformation, highlighting the potential for hybrid forms to create new meanings and possibilities for human experience.

This engagement with hybridity extends into the realm of individual and collective self-identity, where the interplay of various cultural, historical, and technological influences confronts the notion of a singular, immutable identity. (Finlayson, et al,. 2023).  The process of identity formation is thus seen as an ongoing negotiation within hybrid spaces, where diverse elements coalesce, conflict, and transform. This dynamic conception of identity is particularly relevant in a world increasingly characterized by migration, digital connectivity, and cultural exchange, where individuals often find themselves straddling multiple cultures, languages, and social contexts.

Nadia Hashimi, an Afghan-American novelist, has emerged as a poignant voice in contemporary literature, weaving narratives that bridge the rich cultural heritage of Afghanistan with the complexities of diasporic identity. Born in New York in 1977 to Afghan immigrants, Hashimi's literary work is deeply influenced by her cultural roots and the stories passed down from her parents about their homeland. A pediatrician by training, Hashimi's transition into the literary world was driven by her desire to illuminate the resilience and challenges of Afghan women and the Afghan people more broadly. Her novels, including "The Pearl That Broke Its Shell" (2014), "When the Moon Is Low" (2015), and "A House Without Windows" (2016), have been celebrated for their compelling storytelling, intricate character development, and the ability to transport readers to Afghanistan's landscapes, while exploring themes of identity, family, and the struggle for autonomy.

"Sparks Like Stars" (2021), Hashimi's latest work, continues this exploration, delving into the tumultuous history of Afghanistan through the eyes of its protagonist, Sitara Zamani. The novel intricately narrates the life of Sitara, who, as a child, witnesses the murder of her family during the communist coup of 1978, marking a pivotal moment in Afghan history. The narrative spans decades and continents, tracing Sitara's journey from Kabul to the United States, where she grapples with the fragments of her past and the quest for identity in the face of loss and displacement. Hashimi's storytelling is a testament to the enduring spirit of those who navigate the spaces between cultures, histories, and geographies, seeking to reconcile their past with their present.

 The title "Sparks Like Stars" suggests a metaphorical confluence of light and darkness, hope and despair. The word "spark," derived from the Middle English "sperke" or "spercle," and the Old English "spearca," refers to a small particle of fire or a glowing particle thrown off from a fire, often used metaphorically to denote the inception or hint of a much larger event or emotion. "Stars," from the Old English "steorra," symbolizes guidance, destiny, and a sense of permanence amidst the chaos of the universe. Together, the phrase "Sparks Like Stars" evokes a sense of fleeting beauty and the potential for renewal and hope, themes that are central to Hashimi's narrative and her portrayal of Sitara's journey from the ashes of her past towards a luminous future.

Hashimi's work, including "Sparks Like Stars," is a bridge between worlds, offering readers a nuanced understanding of Afghanistan's history and cultural legacy, while also addressing universal themes of resilience, identity, and the search for belonging. Through her vivid storytelling and complex characters, Hashimi not only sheds light on the stories of Afghan women and the Afghan diaspora but also contributes to broader conversations about migration, trauma, and the reconstruction of identity in the wake of historical upheavals.

Research Questions

? How does Nadia Hashimi's "Sparks Like Stars" (2021) depict the concept of cultural hybridity and its impact on the quest for self-identity?

? In what ways does the protagonist's experience in "Sparks Like Stars" reflect the challenges and opportunities of navigating multiple cultural identities?

Research Objectives

? To analyze the portrayal of cultural hybridity in "Sparks Like Stars" and its significance for the protagonist's development and self-identity.

? To examine the protagonist's journey through multiple cultural landscapes and its implications for understanding the complexities of hybrid identities.

Significance of the study

This study holds significant value as it delves into Nadia Hashimi's "Sparks Like Stars" (2021), a novel that intricately portrays the journey of self-identity through the lens of cultural hybridity. By examining the protagonist's navigation across diverse cultural terrains, this analysis contributes to a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between personal history, trauma, and cultural memory within the Afghan diaspora. Furthermore, it enriches the broader discourse on hybrid identities, offering insights into how individuals reconcile their multifaceted selves in a globalized world. This research not only illuminates the nuances of Hashimi's narrative but also underscores the relevance of literature in exploring and articulating experiences of hybridity and identity formation

Theoretical framework

Peter Morey's scholarship, particularly in the realm of postcolonial studies, offers a rich theoretical framework for exploring the concepts of hybridity and the quest for self-identity. Morey's work is instrumental in understanding how literary and cultural texts articulate identity formation within the context of colonial and postcolonial dynamics. His analysis often revolves around the complex intersections of culture, politics, and identity, making his contributions invaluable for examining hybrid identities in a postcolonial world (Morey,et al 2012).

One of Morey's pivotal works, "Framing Muslims: Stereotyping and Representation after 9/11" (2011, co-authored with Amina Yaqin), delves into the media's role in shaping and framing Muslim identities in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks. While this text primarily focuses on stereotyping and representation, its underlying examination of how identities are constructed, contested, and negotiated in public discourse provides a critical backdrop for discussing hybridity. The theoretical insights offered by Morey in this work can be extrapolated to understand the broader processes of identity formation in contexts marked by cultural collisions and political tensions(Morey,2010)

Morey (2018) approach to analyzing the framing of Muslim identities underscores the fluidity and multiplicity of self-identity in a globalized world. He argues that identity is not a fixed or static entity but is continuously shaped by external perceptions, media representations, and the internal negotiation of cultural and religious affiliations. This perspective resonates with Bhabha's (1994) notion of cultural hybridity, where identities emerge in the "third space" of enunciation, a liminal space that allows for the creation of new cultural meanings and identities beyond the binaries of the colonizer and the colonized.

Applying Morey's theoretical framework to the quest for self-identity in a hybrid context involves recognizing the role of narrative and representation in constructing and deconstructing identities. Morey's analysis highlights the power dynamics inherent in the representation process, suggesting that the quest for self-identity is not merely an internal journey but is also influenced by how individuals and groups are positioned and perceived within the socio-political discourse. This framework emphasizes the importance of agency in the construction of hybrid identities, where individuals navigate and negotiate between multiple cultural codes and narratives to carve out spaces for self-expression and belonging.

IMorey's work provides a nuanced lens through which to examine the intersections of hybridity and identity. By focusing on the dynamics of representation and the fluid nature of identity, Morey's theoretical contributions offer valuable insights for understanding the complexities of self-identity in a postcolonial and globalized world. His scholarship underscores the importance of critical engagement with the narratives that shape our understanding of self and other, highlighting the ongoing negotiation of identity in the face of cultural and political hybridity.

Morey and Yaqin's (2011) exploration of the framing of Muslim identities post-9/11 provides a critical foundation for understanding the construction of hybrid identities within contested cultural and political landscapes. This analysis, when combined with Bhabha's (1994) concept of cultural hybridity, offers a comprehensive theoretical framework for investigating the quest for self-identity amidst the complexities of globalized and postcolonial contexts.

Building upon the foundation laid by Morey and Yaqin (2011) and the theoretical constructs of Bhabha (1994), the discourse on hybridity and self-identity can be further expanded to encompass the mechanisms through which individuals navigate their multifaceted identities within spaces that are at once global and local, traditional and modern. Morey's interrogation of media representations and the public framing of identities not only reveals the complexities of identity negotiation but also points towards the transformative potential of hybrid spaces. These are the arenas where cultural, political, and personal identities intersect, offering opportunities for resistance, reinterpretation, and the reimagining of self-identity.

The theoretical framework provided by Morey emphasizes the active role that individuals play in the construction of their identities, against a backdrop of often reductive and monolithic representations. It suggests that hybridity is not merely a byproduct of cultural collision but a dynamic process of engagement, where individuals draw upon diverse cultural narratives and symbols to forge new identities. This process is inherently dialogic, involving the constant exchange and adaptation of ideas, values, and practices. Through this lens, the quest for self-identity in a hybrid context is seen as an ongoing negotiation, one that is shaped by external forces but also deeply rooted in personal agency and creativity.

Morey's work invites a critical examination of the power structures that govern the representation and perception of identities. In a world where media narratives play a significant role in shaping public discourse, understanding the mechanisms of representation becomes crucial for unpacking the complexities of hybrid identity formation. This perspective challenges us to consider how identities are not only self-fashioned but also imposed and contested within the public sphere. The quest for self-identity, therefore, involves navigating the tensions between self-perception and external imposition, between the desire for authenticity and the pressures of conformity.

In applying Morey's theoretical insights to the study of hybridity and identity, it becomes clear that the quest for self-identity is intricately linked to broader social, cultural, and political forces. The hybrid individual is situated at the crossroads of multiple identities, cultures, and discourses, tasked with reconciling seemingly disparate elements into a coherent sense of self. This task is complicated by the fluid and ever-changing nature of cultural and social landscapes, which demand a constant renegotiation of identity and belonging.

In conclusion, the theoretical framework offered by Peter Morey provides a rich lens through which to explore the dynamics of hybridity and the quest for self-identity. It highlights the complexity of identity formation in a globalized world, emphasizing the role of narrative, representation, and agency in this process. Morey's work underscores the importance of understanding the interplay between individual agency and external forces in the construction of hybrid identities, offering valuable insights into the challenges and possibilities of navigating the multifaceted landscapes of culture, politics, and personal experience.

Analysis

“You weren’t scared of the kitchen staff a moment ago. No need to be scared of them now,” Boba chided without looking up. With a quiet pop, the door opened, and Neelab and I peered into the dark interior of the enormous safe. It was almost as tall as me” (Hashimi, 2021)

In analyzing Nadia Hashimi's "Sparks Like Stars" (2021) through the lens of cultural hybridity and its impact on the protagonist's quest for self-identity, the concept as defined by Peter Morey provides a useful theoretical framework. Morey's theory, which explores the complexities of identity formation in postcolonial contexts, helps in understanding how cultural hybridity is not just a mixing of cultures but involves a negotiation of identities and power dynamics (Morey,et al 2012). This analysis will focus on two specific quotations from Hashimi's novel to explore how the protagonist's experiences reflect the challenges and opportunities of navigating multiple cultural identities.

The first quotation, "You weren’t scared of the kitchen staff a moment ago. No need to be scared of them now," chided by Boba, can be interpreted as highlighting the protagonist's fluctuating sense of belonging and identity. From Morey's perspective, this moment can be seen as emblematic of the protagonist's internal struggle with cultural hybridity. The protagonist's fear, or lack thereof, towards the kitchen staff, who may represent a familiar yet distinct cultural identity, underscores the ongoing negotiation of her place within different cultural spaces. Boba's admonishment serves to remind the protagonist of her complex relationship with her surroundings, encapsulating the postcolonial tension of aligning oneself with either the colonizer's or the native's cultural identity. This interaction illuminates the protagonist's journey of self-identity, navigating between the familiarity of her own culture and the imposition of another, thus reflecting Morey's theory on the intricate dance of power, identity, and cultural hybridity

The second quotation, involving the protagonist and Neelab peering into the dark interior of the enormous safe, symbolizes the hidden depths of cultural identity and the quest for self-discovery within the context of cultural hybridity. The safe, "almost as tall as me," represents the vast and sometimes intimidating journey of exploring one's identity amidst the pressures of conforming to multiple cultural expectations. This moment can be analyzed through Morey's concept of cultural hybridity as a space of potential liberation and constraint (Ahmed, Morey, & Yaqin,2012)The act of looking into the safe suggests the protagonist's attempt to unlock parts of her identity that are complex and multifaceted, reflecting the broader experience of individuals navigating multiple cultural identities. This exploration is fraught with challenges, as the darkness of the safe implies the uncertainty and fear associated with delving into one's cultural heritage and identity. Yet, it also presents an opportunity for self-discovery and the formation of a nuanced, hybrid identity that encompasses the protagonist's diverse experiences and cultural influences.

Through the lens of Peter Morey's theory of cultural hybridity, the quotations from Nadia Hashimi's "Sparks Like Stars" (2021) illustrate the protagonist's journey of navigating and negotiating her multiple cultural identities. The protagonist's interactions and experiences reflect the complexities of hybrid identity formation, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities inherent in this process. This analysis underscores the significance of cultural hybridity in shaping individual identity within postcolonial contexts, as represented in Hashimi's narrative.

“Maybe he did know,” I suggested. “It’s unlikely. People cannot imagine their civilization will not endure forever. Pride is blinding.” “Why will this all be put into the museum? Why not display it here in the palace?” Neelab asked. (Hashimi, 2021)

Morey's theory, which delves into the negotiation of identities in postcolonial settings, offers a pertinent lens for understanding the protagonist's experiences and the broader implications of cultural hybridity on one's sense of self (Procter, & Morey,2004). This analysis focuses on the dialogue between characters regarding the impermanence of civilizations and the decision to place items in a museum rather than in their original context within the palace.

The first quotation, "Maybe he did know,” I suggested. “It’s unlikely. People cannot imagine their civilization will not endure forever. Pride is blinding,” speaks volumes about the concept of cultural hybridity and identity. Through Morey's lens, this exchange can be interpreted as a reflection on the often-oversimplified understanding of one's culture and identity as static and unchanging entities. The mention of the inability to foresee the end of one's civilization points to a deeper commentary on the fluidity of cultural identities and the shocks that can lead to a reassessment of these identities. This resonates with Morey's discussions on the complexities of postcolonial identities, where the past and present collide and coexist, often in tension with each other. The pride mentioned here can be seen as a metaphor for the resistance to recognizing the hybrid nature of identities, shaped by both colonial histories and indigenous cultures (Williams,& Morey, 2002).

The second quotation, “Why will this all be put into the museum? Why not display it here in the palace?” asked by Neelab, further explores themes of cultural hybridity and identity. From Morey's perspective, this question raises important issues about the spaces in which cultural artifacts are displayed and the implications for cultural identity and memory (Morey, et al 2012). Museums, often products of colonial enterprises, can be sites of cultural hybridity themselves, where artifacts are removed from their original contexts and presented in ways that reflect the values and narratives of the dominant culture. This displacement from the palace to the museum symbolizes a shift in how cultural heritage is perceived and valued, potentially leading to a hybridization of cultural identities. The protagonist's and Neelab's dialogue highlights the tension between preserving cultural heritage in its authentic context versus its recontextualization within the framework of a museum, suggesting a negotiation of identity that encompasses both the loss and reimagining of cultural significance.

In the dialogue where Neelab questions the decision to relocate cultural artifacts to a museum, Hashimi implicitly addresses the dynamics of power, memory, and identity. Morey's theory helps us understand that such a relocation is not merely a physical transfer of items from one location to another but symbolizes the reconfiguration of cultural heritage and identity. This act reflects a colonial legacy where the control and interpretation of cultural artifacts often lie in the hands of those who wield power, thus influencing how identities are constructed and understood (Ahmed, Morey, & Yaqin,2012). The protagonist's engagement with these questions suggests a deep contemplation of her own identity within a landscape marked by loss, displacement, and the ongoing negotiation of her cultural heritage.

The protagonist's reflections and the narrative setting in "Sparks Like Stars" emphasize the fluidity and constructed nature of cultural identities, challenging the notion of a singular, unchanging cultural essence. This mirrors Morey's discussions on the potential of hybrid identities to subvert traditional narratives and create spaces for new forms of self-expression and belonging. The protagonist's journey can be seen as emblematic of the postcolonial struggle to reconcile different facets of one's identity, navigating the spaces between tradition and change, and between the cultures of one's ancestry and those encountered through colonial history and migration..

"Caught between two worlds, I tread on a path sprinkled with the dust of my ancestors and the glow of the neon lights ahead." (Hashimi, 2021)

Peter Morey's theory on cultural hybridity offers a lens through which to analyze the protagonist's experience as depicted in the quotation. Morey posits that cultural hybridity encompasses the blending and negotiation of identities in postcolonial contexts, where individuals often find themselves balancing between the cultural heritage of their ancestors and the influences of contemporary, often Western, cultures (Procter, & Morey,2004). This balance is not without its challenges, as it involves reconciling conflicting values, traditions, and expectations.

The "dust of my ancestors" metaphorically represents the protagonist's cultural roots and heritage, signifying the weight of history and tradition that shapes her identity. This imagery evokes a sense of reverence for the past and acknowledges the deep connections that bind the protagonist to her lineage and the cultural practices of her forebears. In contrast, the "glow of the neon lights ahead" symbolizes the allure and promise of modernity and the future, representing new opportunities, perspectives, and possibly a departure from traditional confines. The neon lights, with their connotations of urbanization and Western influence, suggest a forward-looking vision that is both enticing and fraught with the uncertainty of navigating a hybrid identity.

The protagonist's path, "sprinkled with the dust of my ancestors and the glow of the neon lights," vividly illustrates the concept of cultural hybridity as an ongoing journey of negotiation and reconciliation between the past and the present, the traditional and the modern. It highlights the dynamic and often challenging process of constructing a self-identity that encompasses multiple cultural dimensions. Through this lens, Hashimi's narrative underscores the complexities of living at the intersection of different cultural worlds, reflecting the protagonist's struggle to forge an identity that honors her heritage while embracing the possibilities of a new cultural milieu.

In utilizing Morey's theory, this analysis illuminates how Hashimi's "Sparks Like Stars" engages with themes of cultural hybridity, identity, and the postcolonial search for self. The novel provides a nuanced exploration of the protagonist's experiences, capturing the essence of navigating multiple cultural identities and the impact of this journey on her quest for self-identity. Through the protagonist's reflection, Hashimi articulates the challenges and opportunities inherent in the cultural hybridity experience, offering insight into the multifaceted process of identity formation in a globalized world.

"In their eyes, I see the question: 'Where are you really from?' and I wonder, where do I truly belong?" (Hashimi, 2021)

The question "Where are you really from?" is a common query posed to individuals whose appearance or demeanor suggests a multicultural background. This question, while seemingly innocuous, underscores a deeper societal insistence on categorizing individuals into singular, easily identifiable cultural or ethnic boxes. For the protagonist, this question is not just about geographical origin; it is a probing into the essence of her identity, challenging her to define herself within the constraints of conventional labels. This reflects Morey's discussions on cultural hybridity, where the hybrid individual often faces the challenge of navigating between or among multiple identities.

The protagonist's internal response, "I wonder, where do I truly belong?" highlights the personal struggle and introspection that arises from attempts to reconcile these diverse cultural identities. It speaks to the core of Morey's concept of cultural hybridity as a condition of modern postcolonial life, where the hybrid subject is perpetually in a state of flux, negotiating the spaces between cultures, traditions, and expectations. This condition offers both challenges and opportunities—the challenge of not feeling complete belonging in any one culture, and the opportunity to forge a unique, multifaceted identity that draws strength and richness from multiple cultural heritages.

Hashimi's portrayal of the protagonist's experience offers a vivid illustration of the impact of cultural hybridity on an individual's search for identity. The protagonist's journey reflects the broader postcolonial experience of individuals who find themselves at the crossroads of cultures, navigating the complexities of belonging, identity, and self-definition in a world that often demands clear-cut categorizations. Through this narrative, Hashimi engages with Morey's theoretical framework, showcasing the nuanced realities of living with a hybrid identity and the continual quest for a sense of belonging and self-understanding in a multicultural world.

The exploration of cultural hybridity in Nadia Hashimi's "Sparks Like Stars" extends beyond the protagonist's personal reflections, touching on broader societal dynamics and the implications of living in a world where cultural boundaries are increasingly blurred. The protagonist's internal question, "where do I truly belong?", not only speaks to her own identity crisis but also mirrors the collective experience of many who live at the intersection of cultures, as conceptualized by Morey, et al( 2012 ). This intersection presents a complex landscape of identity negotiation, where individuals must navigate the expectations and perceptions of others while attempting to forge a coherent sense of self.

Morey's theory highlights the potential for cultural hybridity to serve as a space of resistance and creativity, where the blending of cultures can lead to the emergence of new forms of identity that challenge traditional boundaries and categories (Morey, 2011). In this light, the protagonist's journey can be seen as emblematic of the transformative potential inherent in the hybrid identity experience. By questioning where she truly belongs, she is engaging in a process of self-creation that defies simplistic categorizations, embracing a fluid and dynamic conception of identity that reflects the realities of a globalized, postcolonial world.

Hashimi's narrative, through the lens of Morey's theory, underscores the idea that cultural hybridity is not merely a state of being caught between worlds but can be a source of strength and innovation. The protagonist's struggle with the question of belonging is indicative of the broader challenges faced by individuals navigating multiple cultural identities, but it also highlights the opportunities for self-definition and empowerment that arise from this complex interplay of influences.

"With each step on American soil, I carry the echoes of Kabul's mountains, a symphony of the past that shapes my march into the future." (Hashimi, 2021)

Peter Morey emphasizes the complexity of cultural hybridity, particularly in the postcolonial context, where individuals often find themselves straddling the boundaries of different cultural realms(Procter, & Morey,2004)). This straddling results in a unique blend of identities that can neither be fully ascribed to the original culture nor completely assimilated into the new culture. The protagonist's experience, as described in the quotation, embodies this notion of hybridity. The "echoes of Kabul's mountains" symbolize the enduring influence of her Afghan heritage, a testament to the indelible marks of one's culture of origin on their identity. This imagery evokes a sense of nostalgia and longing, underscoring the deep connection to her past and the cultural memories that continue to define her.

The act of carrying these echoes onto American soil signifies the protagonist's physical and metaphorical journey across cultural landscapes. It highlights the ongoing negotiation between her inherited cultural identity and the new cultural context she finds herself in. This negotiation is central to Morey's discussion on cultural hybridity, which suggests that such a process is dynamic and involves a continuous redefinition of self in relation to shifting cultural influences.

The phrase "a symphony of the past that shapes my march into the future" eloquently expresses the constructive role of cultural hybridity in shaping one's identity. It suggests that the protagonist's past and her cultural heritage are not mere relics to be left behind but are integral to her identity and future trajectory. This perspective aligns with Morey's theory, which argues that cultural hybridity can provide a fertile ground for the emergence of new, enriched identities that incorporate elements from multiple cultures.

Through this quotation, Hashimi's narrative articulates the challenges and opportunities of navigating multiple cultural identities. The challenge lies in reconciling the different aspects of one's identity while facing the pressures of assimilation and cultural preservation. Conversely, the opportunity arises from the potential to forge a nuanced and multifaceted self that draws strength from a diverse cultural heritage.

In depicting the protagonist's journey, "Sparks Like Stars" not only explores the complexities of cultural hybridity but also celebrates its potential to enrich individual identity. The novel, through its vivid portrayal of the protagonist's experiences, provides a compelling insight into the impact of cultural hybridity on the quest for self-identity, reflecting the intricacies of living between worlds and the transformative power of embracing a hybrid cultural identity.

"Language is the home I carry in my mouth, but with every word, I feel the walls of this home expanding and contracting." (Hashimi, 2021)

Morey's discussions on cultural hybridity emphasize the complexity of identity negotiation in postcolonial contexts, where individuals often grapple with the remnants of colonial influence and the realities of their indigenous cultures (Ahmed, Morey, & Yaqin,2012)This quotation encapsulates the fluidity and dynamism inherent in cultural hybridity, especially through the metaphor of language as a mobile and adaptable home.

Language, as depicted in the quotation, serves as a powerful symbol of identity and belonging. The idea that language can be a "home" suggests a sense of comfort, familiarity, and identity that one carries within themselves, irrespective of their geographical location. This aligns with Morey's interpretation of cultural hybridity, where identity is not fixed but is constantly being renegotiated and redefined through interactions with multiple cultures Morey,& Yaqin, 2011) For the protagonist, language embodies the complexities of living between cultures, acting as a vessel for carrying the nuances of her cultural heritage while also adapting to new influences.

The imagery of the home's walls "expanding and contracting" with every word spoken further illustrates the dynamic nature of cultural hybridity. This movement reflects the ongoing adjustments and accommodations individuals make as they navigate between their native and adopted cultures. It signifies the fluid boundaries of identity that can be reshaped by language, highlighting how cultural expressions can both connect us to and separate us from various aspects of our heritage. According to Morey, this fluidity is characteristic of postcolonial identities, which are often marked by a tension between the desire to preserve cultural origins and the need to adapt to new cultural contexts.

This quotation from "Sparks Like Stars" vividly portrays the protagonist's experience of cultural hybridity, emphasizing the role of language in shaping and expressing identity. Through this lens, Hashimi's narrative explores the challenges of cultural hybridity, such as the feeling of being perpetually in-between cultures, never fully belonging to one or the other. However, it also highlights the opportunities that this in-betweenness presents, such as the ability to construct a unique, multifaceted identity that draws from a rich tapestry of cultural influences.

Hashimi's depiction of the protagonist's relationship with language and identity through the concept of cultural hybridity reflects a broader examination of the postcolonial condition. The novel showcases the profound impact of cultural hybridity on the quest for self-identity, illustrating the complexities, challenges, and opportunities of navigating multiple cultural identities. Through the metaphor of language as a home that is both flexible and enduring, "Sparks Like Stars" contributes to our understanding of cultural hybridity as a lived experience, marked by continuous negotiation and adaptation.

"I am a mosaic of memories, dreams, and traditions, pieced together by the hands of destiny and choice." (Hashimi, 2021)

Peter Morey's concept of cultural hybridity emphasizes the intricacies of identity negotiation within postcolonial spaces, highlighting how individuals often find themselves at the crossroads of diverse cultural influences. This negotiation is not merely about balancing between two or more cultures but involves the active construction of a new identity that incorporates elements from each cultural sphere. The protagonist's self-description as a "mosaic of memories, dreams, and traditions" vividly illustrates this process of identity construction, suggesting a complex and layered identity that transcends simplistic categorizations.

The metaphor of a mosaic is particularly apt in describing the protagonist's identity. Mosaics are composed of various pieces, each unique in color, shape, and texture, which come together to form a coherent whole. Similarly, the protagonist's identity comprises different cultural memories, dreams, and traditions, each contributing to the complexity of her self-conception. This metaphor aligns with Morey's discussion of cultural hybridity as a condition marked by fluidity and dynamism, where identity is constantly being reshaped by new experiences and influences.

The role of "destiny and choice" in piecing together the mosaic of the protagonist's identity highlights the dual forces that shape our understanding of self in a culturally hybrid context. Destiny may refer to the unchosen aspects of one's identity, such as place of birth, family heritage, and early life experiences. In contrast, choice reflects the active decisions and affiliations that further define one's sense of self. This duality captures the essence of Morey's cultural hybridity, where the negotiation of identity involves both passive inheritances and active engagements with different cultures.

The quotation from "Sparks Like Stars" thus encapsulates the challenges and opportunities inherent in navigating multiple cultural identities. The challenge lies in reconciling the diverse components of one's identity into a cohesive self-concept, while the opportunity lies in the rich potential for self-definition and the creation of a unique, multifaceted identity. Through the protagonist's reflection, Hashimi offers a nuanced portrayal of cultural hybridity, emphasizing the role of individual agency in the construction of identity and the transformative potential of embracing one's hybrid nature.

In this way, Hashimi's narrative, informed by Morey's theoretical insights, sheds light on the complexities of cultural hybridity and its impact on the quest for self-identity. The protagonist's experience reflects a broader postcolonial condition, illustrating the intricate dance between heritage and choice in the formation of a culturally hybrid identity. Through the metaphor of a mosaic, "Sparks Like Stars" contributes to our understanding of cultural hybridity as a lived experience, characterized by continuous negotiation, adaptation, and the creative potential for self-reinvention.

The protagonist's description of herself as a mosaic emphasizes the active and ongoing process of identity formation, reflecting Morey's assertion that cultural hybridity is not a fixed state but a dynamic condition of being (Morey, 2004). This dynamism is crucial in understanding the protagonist's experiences, as it suggests that identity is not merely inherited or imposed but is something that individuals actively construct and reconstruct throughout their lives. The reference to "destiny and choice" in shaping the mosaic highlights the complex interplay between external circumstances and personal agency in the formation of identity. This interplay resonates with Morey’s discussion on the subjectivity of hybrid identities, where the individual navigates and negotiates between various cultural influences, embracing some while modifying or rejecting others based on personal experiences and choices.

The metaphor of the mosaic also speaks to the beauty and richness that can arise from the combination of diverse cultural elements. It suggests that the protagonist's hybrid identity, though complex and sometimes challenging to navigate, is also a source of strength and uniqueness. This perspective aligns with Morey's more optimistic view of cultural hybridity as a space of potential empowerment and creativity, where the blending of cultures can lead to new forms of expression and understanding.

 Hashimi’s portrayal of the protagonist’s journey through the lens of cultural hybridity illuminates the broader societal challenges and opportunities that come with navigating multiple cultural identities. The protagonist’s experience is emblematic of the struggles many individuals face in a postcolonial and increasingly globalized world, where questions of identity, belonging, and cultural coherence become ever more pressing. Yet, it also underscores the potential for individuals to craft identities that are not bounded by traditional definitions but are instead reflective of a diverse and interconnected world.

 "Sparks Like Stars" provides a compelling exploration of cultural hybridity and its impact on the quest for self-identity, drawing on Peter Morey's theoretical framework to delve into the protagonist's experiences. The novel highlights both the challenges of navigating multiple cultural identities and the opportunities that this navigation presents for the creation of a rich, nuanced self-concept. Through the metaphor of a mosaic, Hashimi effectively captures the essence of cultural hybridity, offering a nuanced portrayal of the protagonist’s identity as a vibrant tapestry of memories, dreams, and traditions. In doing so, Hashimi contributes to a deeper understanding of cultural hybridity as a dynamic and creative force in the postcolonial quest for identity and belonging.

Conclusion

The analysis of Nadia Hashimi's "Sparks Like Stars" through the lens of Peter Morey's theory on cultural hybridity provides a rich, nuanced understanding of the protagonist's journey and the broader implications of navigating multiple cultural identities. Hashimi’s narrative, interwoven with vivid metaphors and reflective questions, not only portrays the personal struggle and growth of the protagonist but also engages with complex themes of identity, belonging, and the transformative potential of cultural hybridity. The quotations selected for analysis encapsulate the essence of the protagonist's experience, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities that arise from her hybrid cultural identity.

The metaphor of language as a home, the echoes of Kabul's mountains on American soil, and the self-description as a mosaic of memories, dreams, and traditions, each serve to illustrate the dynamic, ongoing process of identity negotiation. This process is marked by an interplay between the inherited traditions of the past and the new experiences and influences of the present, encapsulating Morey's view of cultural hybridity as a space of both constraint and creativity. The protagonist's reflections reveal the complexities of living between worlds, where identity is not static but continually shaped by the interactions between personal agency and external forces.

The discussions around language and memory, destiny and choice, and the imagery of mosaics and echoes, underscore the fluid nature of cultural identity, challenging the notion of monolithic or static cultural belonging. Instead, Hashimi presents a vision of identity that is rich, layered, and evolving, reflecting the real-world experiences of many individuals in our increasingly globalized society. This portrayal aligns with Morey's theoretical insights into the potential of cultural hybridity to subvert traditional narratives and create new forms of self-expression and understanding. It suggests that the hybrid cultural identity, though fraught with challenges, offers unique opportunities for enrichment and self-definition beyond the confines of singular cultural affiliations.

Moreover, Hashimi’s narrative extends beyond the individual to comment on broader societal dynamics and the postcolonial condition. The protagonist's journey from Kabul to America and her reflections on identity and belonging engage with the larger themes of displacement, migration, and the search for a sense of home in a world marked by cultural collisions and transformations. This engagement highlights the relevance of Morey's theory in understanding the complexities of postcolonial identities and the role of cultural hybridity in shaping contemporary experiences of self and community.

In conclusion, "Sparks Like Stars" provides a profound exploration of cultural hybridity and its impact on the quest for self-identity, weaving together the personal and the theoretical to offer insights into the challenges and opportunities of navigating multiple cultural identities. Through the protagonist's journey, Hashimi not only reflects the intricacies of individual identity formation in a postcolonial world but also celebrates the potential for cultural hybridity to foster a deeper, more nuanced understanding of self and others. The novel, thus, stands as a testament to the power of narrative to capture the complexities of human experience, offering a compelling account of the ways in which cultural hybridity shapes and enriches our lives.

References

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• Finlayson, B., Makarewicz, C. A., & Smith, S. J. (2023). Cultural hybridity in central and southern Jordan at the end of the Pre-Pottery Neolithic A. Paléorient
• Hashimi, N. (2021, March 2). Sparks Like Stars. HarperCollins
• Laihonen, H., & Huhtamäki, J. (2023). Organisational hybridity and fluidity: deriving new strategies for dynamic knowledge management. Knowledge Management Research & Practice, 21(2), 216–228.
• Morey, P. (2000, January 1). Fictions of India. Edinburgh University Press.