“Us” versus “Them” Discourse in John Updike’s Novel, 'Terrorist'

Abstract

A major literary concern since September 11^th, 2001 has been its preoccupation with the discourse of terrorism as writers attempt to comprehend the underlying reasons of terrorism. This paper looks at the “us” versus “them “discourse in John Updike’s novel Terrorist. Updike is an American novelist who has extensively engaged in the discourse of terrorism and Islam. The paper focuses on the presentation of the discourse between “Us” those of Western culture and non-Muslim versus “Them” perceived as against Western secular culture, Islam. The main objective of this paper is to bring into perspective the “us” versus “them” discourse as presented in the novel with a view of identifying ways the discourse can be shaped to promote national cohesion and integration. The paper is informed by reader response and psychoanalytic theories and employs qualitative research design that is based on textual content analysis as its methodology. The paper discusses the reasons behind terrorism and how Western discourse is filled with prejudice towards non-Western cultures and religions. Updike novel presents potential terrorists as Muslims against Western civilization and culture that is largely anchored on Christianity. The paper gives useful contribution by bringing into perspective the role literature plays in advancing a false narrative about other cultures perceived as antagonist to the Western culture. The contribution of religious institutions in promoting national cohesion and integration cannot be underestimated. The paper thus analyzes John Updike’s novel Terrorist’s presentation of this critical discourse and the role Islamic clergy and its institutions must play in countering terrorism to promote national cohesion and integration in the society.