One aspect that Selvon highlights is the sense of isolation and loneliness felt by the immigrants. Los Lamos is a fictional neighborhood often used as a stand-in for the real-life areas of Notting Hill and Brixton, places popular with Caribbean immigrants to London. Living in a new and unfamiliar environment, far from their homes and loved ones, many of the characters in the book grapple with feelings of homesickness and displacement.
Selvon also portrays the hardships faced by the immigrants, including poor living conditions, poverty, and discrimination. Many of them work in low-paying jobs and face challenges in finding stable housing. Furthermore, they encounter prejudice and racism from some segments of British society, making it difficult for them to fully integrate and feel accepted.
Despite these struggles, Selvon also highlights the resilience and strength of the immigrant community. They form close-knit networks, providing support and a sense of belonging to one another. They also find joy and comfort in their shared cultural traditions, such as music and food, which help to preserve their identity and connect them to their homeland.
Selvon's depiction of the experiences of West Indian immigrants in London offers a poignant portrayal of the challenges and complexities faced by marginalized communities in a foreign land. Through his characters, he sheds light on the human struggles, hopes, and dreams of individuals seeking a better life in unfamiliar surroundings.