Displacement

In the beginning of Act 2, Yoland really starts to reveal his emotional feelings concerning his past. He seems to be experiencing the ever popular feeling of displacement in society. He cannot and does not want to compare to his prestigious colonial father. Thus, he struggles to discover his own identity in the world. Unlike most, Yoland does not care for the nationalized and prominent England. He is drawn to the simplicity and warmness of Ireland, yet still does not quite fit in. He says “I think your country side is beautiful. I’ve fallen in love with it already.” Yet on the other hand, Yoland struggles to understand and speak the Irish language. Specifically the the simplicity and way certain irish names and words are pronounced.

I think Yoland’s problems really relates to that of Lucy’s struggles. Both cannot fully adopt a home as their home for various reasons. Yoland can relate to the systematic way and language of England, yet loves the people, land, and language of Ireland. Lucy loves the nostalgic feeling of warm weather and her mother, yet longs for freedom and higher standards of living in America. Both characters can relate to their home, and the place they want to be, or think they want to be. However, it is more of a difficult situation for Lucy than Yoland. Yoland is living in a similar environment and is very close to his home in England. Most importantly he does not express hidden desire to go back there. I think this is because he is so distant from his Dad and grabs a hold of something comforting and new. Thus, his obstacle lies only in fitting in with Irish culture. Lucy on the other hand, is split between home and her new life in America. She seems never to be fully or even somewhat happy where ever she goes or whatever she does.