Traversing the Depths: Unraveling the Threads of Trauma in Ta-Nehisi Coates’ The Water Dancer

Abstract

This study embarks on a profound exploration of trauma, identity and psychological struggle in the novel The Water Dancer by Ta-Nehisi Coates. The study employs the theoretical lens of Double Consciousness by W.E.B Du Bois, to illuminate the nuanced layers of psychological struggle of the protagonist and his identity formation amidst a backdrop of historical trauma. It unveils how characters navigate the complex terrain of personal and collective trauma, unveiling the threads that bind memory and consciousness. The research scrutinizes how the protagonist’s experiences echo broader societal wounds, providing a thought-provoking analysis of the resonance of trauma within the context of double consciousness. Through a meticulous examination of narrative intricacies, the study unveils the protagonist's quest for self-discovery and resilience, shedding light on the transformative power embedded in the intersection of personal and collective histories. The research not only contributes to a richer understanding of trauma within the novel but also invites a broader discourse on the transformative potential of double consciousness in navigating and transcending historical wounds.