Dr. Dubovitskaya Maria Anatol’evna,
Department of English Language, Faculty of International Journalism, MGIMO University, Russia
This paper examines the concept of liminality in contemporary Black British literature, with a focus on its linguistic manifestations and the portrayal of cultural identity. Liminality, defined as the condition of being on the threshold between two states, is a recurring theme in the works of Black British authors. This theme illustrates the complex interplay between cultural heritage and national identity. The study investigates how these authors utilize language as a tool to express the in-between spaces their characters inhabit, negotiating identities amidst cultural, social, and political landscapes. Utilizing linguistic analysis methods such as priming and framing, the paper highlights the use of code-switching, dialects, and hybrid language forms as significant strategies. These strategies not only reflect the characters’ dual cultural affiliations but also serve as a means of self-affirmation. By employing these linguistic techniques, authors create a narrative space that challenges monolithic perceptions of identity and embraces the fluidity of cultural expressions. This study underscores the importance of language in articulating the liminal experiences of Black British individuals, offering insights into broader discussions of multiculturalism and identity politics in contemporary literature.
Keywords: Liminality, Linguistic Manifestation, Cultural Identity, Code-Switching, Priming
The above abstract is a part of the article which was accepted at The 10th International Conference on Languages, Linguistics, Translation and Literature (WWW.TLLL.IR), 1-2 February 2025, Ahwaz.
