The Library
The Library represents colonialist ruins that continue to exist in Antigua. Kincaid reflects how the library used to hold books that pictured England in a positive light. Now, the library speaks to the government’s lack of outreach to the Antiguan citizens. After the library was damaged by the earthquake, the government simply put up a sign about pending repairs. Furthermore, the library symbolizes the government’s lack of intervention in improving the situation for Antiguan citizens, and instead, their focus on developing areas into commercial property for the enjoyment of tourists.
The Mill Reef Club
The Mill Reef Club is another symbol of colonialism that represents how foreign control still impacts life in Antigua. This club is a segregated place for white visitors who come to Antigua and embodies the past racist divisions of the British Empire. Ultimately, Kincaid and other citizens are dependent on the Mill Reef Club for money, such as library repairs, which testifies to a similar dependence as seen during the British’s control of Antigua during colonialism.
