Patriotism Quote by NoViolet Bulawayo, We Need New Names
““If I’m lucky, like today, I get to be the U.S.A., which is a country-country; who doesn’t know that the U.S.A. is the big baboon of the world? I feel like it’s my country now because my aunt Fostalina lives there, in Destroyedmichygen. Once her things are in order she’ll come and get me and I will go and live there also.””
About This Quote
Source Book: We Need New Names, 2013
A whimsical, satirical view of identity and belonging, mixing personal ties with national symbolism.
In simple terms: Identity feels fluid and tied to family and place.
Key Takeaway
Embrace your roots while questioning national narratives.
Themes
identity
belonging
satire
family
nationalism
Mood
reflective
playful
critical
Type
literary
satirical
personal
When to use this quote
- immigration
- family reunification
- cultural identity
- exile
Key Concepts
postcolonialism
personal narrative
humor
Questions to Reflect On
- How do personal relationships shape your sense of nation?
- What does “big baboon” suggest about global power?
A Different Perspective
The humor may mask deeper feelings of displacement.
