Immigrant Aria And Why Whales Are Back In NYC?

"Immigrant Aria" and "Why Whales Are Back in NYC?" are two poems that explore themes of identity and displacement in distinct ways. While Rajiv Mohabir's "Immigrant Aria" is a deeply personal reflection on his experience as a first-generation immigrant to America, "Why Whales Are Back in NYC?" considers the impact of human activity on the natural world and the displacement of wildlife from their habitats. Immigrants often struggle to find employment due to language barriers and a lack of familiarity with the job market in their new country. The immigration process can be long and arduous, and immigrants may face significant financial, emotional, and social challenges during this time. Immigrants may also face legal challenges related to their

In "Immigrant Aria," Mohabir writes about the struggle of reconciling his cultural heritage with his new identity as an American, describing how "the texture of a memory" can be lost in the process of assimilation. Similarly, his other poem considers the ways in which human activity has disrupted the natural world, causing animals like whales to be displaced from their habitats. The speaker notes that "whales come upriver to find the sea again," highlighting the sense of displacement and the struggle to find one's place in the world. Immigrants often face discrimination and racism, which can make it difficult to feel a sense of belonging and safety in their new communities. According to a “How to” article, “Access to affordable housing and healthcare can be a significant struggle for immigrants, particularly those who are undocumented or low-income.” Many immigrants leave behind family and friends in their home countries, and may struggle with feelings of loneliness and isolation in their new communities. Learning a new language can be a significant challenge for immigrants, and may limit their ability to fully participate in society and engage with their new communities. Immigrants often face economic insecurity, and may struggle to provide for themselves and their families due to limited job opportunities and low wages. The stress and trauma of leaving behind one's home country and

Mohabir's descriptions of "the scent of ginger" and the "red lentil dahl" in his grandmother's kitchen evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing for a past that is increasingly distant. Similarly, his descriptions of the whales "surging through the river" and "the city's din beneath their song" create a vivid sense of displacement and the struggle to survive in an environment that is increasingly hostile. This idea of displacement is described very well in an outside article. According to research done in a Harvard Graduate school of Education article, it says, “Expat syndrome, also known as culture shock, is a common psychological response to the experience of living in a foreign country. The symptoms of expat syndrome can include feelings of isolation, frustration, and a sense of not belonging. Expat syndrome can be triggered by a range of factors, such as differences in language, food, climate, and social norms. It is important for expats to be aware of the symptoms of expat syndrome and take steps to manage their mental health and well-being. Some strategies for coping with expat syndrome include building a support network, staying physically active, and learning about the local culture and customs. Expat syndrome can also lead to a deeper understanding and appreciation of different cultures, as well as personal growth and resilience. (Gates) While expat syndrome can be challenging to navigate, many people