Tradition vs. Modernity
A primary theme of “To Da-duh, in Memoriam” is the tension between tradition and modernity. Da-duh, the grandmother, represents the customs, pride, and simplicity of rural Barbados, while her granddaughter embodies the fast-paced, industrialized world of New York. Their differing perspectives—Da-duh celebrating the natural beauty of the island, and the granddaughter marveling at skyscrapers and machines—highlight the inevitable clash between old ways and new technologies. Marshall illustrates how modernity can overwhelm traditional life, but also how heritage and memory continue to hold value despite change.
Colonialism and Cultural Identity
The story explores the influence of colonialism on Caribbean identity. Da-duh’s pride in her land and culture reflects the struggle to maintain a sense of self against external domination. The granddaughter, shaped by Western society, represents a shift in cultural authority, subtly reversing the traditional power dynamic between the colonized and colonizer. Through their interactions, Marshall examines how postcolonial identity is negotiated across generations, showing both resistance to and adaptation of foreign influences.
Generational Conflict
The story highlights the tension between the older and younger generations. Da-duh’s worldview, rooted in experience and heritage, clashes with the granddaughter’s modern, confident outlook. This conflict reflects broader societal shifts, where the younger generation often embraces new ideas and technologies, challenging the authority and values of their elders. The narrative demonstrates both the misunderstandings and the deep bonds that exist between generations, emphasizing the need for memory and dialogue to preserve identity.
Nature vs. Industrialization
Marshall emphasizes the theme of nature versus industrialization through the symbolism of Barbados’ landscape. Da-duh’s connection to the land represents life, continuity, and spiritual richness, while the bulldozers that arrive at the story’s end symbolize the destructive power of progress. The death of Da-duh coinciding with industrial intrusion reinforces the idea that modernization can erode natural and cultural heritage, highlighting the tension between human development and ecological and social preservation.
Mortality and Memory
The theme of mortality and memory underscores the story’s reflective tone. Da-duh’s death marks the physical end of a way of life, but the narrator’s remembrance preserves her grandmother’s legacy. Marshall portrays memory as a powerful tool to resist erasure, showing that cultural values, personal stories, and familial connections continue to shape identity even after loss. Memory allows the past to remain relevant, emphasizing continuity in the face of inevitable change.
