Romulus, My Father

{Insert overarching thesis that answers question} Romulus, My Father, a memoir composed by Raimond Gaita is one such text. Gaita explores the aspects of relationships, acceptance and identity, representing the comment that a sense of identity to place is an essential aspect of belonging, and that immigration experiences make it difficult for one to be accepted by, and to build relationships in, a country that is alien and unfamiliar. The film, Edward Scissorhands, directed by Tim Burton, primarily explores aspects of acceptance and understanding and deals with the idea that otherness and difference can cause a barrier to belonging, especially in the face of society-wide conformity. Pierre-Auguste Renoir, composer of the painting, “Luncheon of the Boating Party,” represents another idea on belonging, focusing on the aspects of relationships and acceptance. Renoir explores the comment that a sense of belonging within a group can bring about happiness, harmony and well-being.
Romulus, My Father, follows the experiences and contemplations of the Gaita family as they immigrate to Australia and attempt to merge themselves with the Australian landscape and identity. This differs from the composer of Edward Scissorhands, who represents the narrative of a unique young man, Edward, who has scissors for hands and attempts to conform to an unaccepting neighbourhood, after having spent his entire existence isolated from humanity in a gothic mansion. Renoir employs an alternative form from Gaita and Burton, using a painting to portray a group of content people from a range of different social classes and backgrounds enjoying a leisurely luncheon and conversation.
ACCEPTANCE AND UNDERSTANDING- could also be IDENTITY:
Gaita exemplifies his father’s experiences of immigration and their effect on his sense of belonging through the aspects of identity, a lack of acceptance and a lack of understanding. Romulus experiences a lack of connection with his new home which prevents the...