IndexIntroductionThe fluidity of names in "white teeth"The resistance of older generations to cultural changesThe adaptation of younger generations to multiculturalismNicknames as a reflection of cultural disapprovalNames as symbols of movements institutional and culturalConclusionIntroduction"White Teeth" delves into the complex and multifaceted theme of cultural identity. In this novel, the search for identity is an omnipresent thread that weaves through the lives of each character, forcing them to confront the profound question "Who am I?" This exploration takes shape through their experiences with names, nicknames, and epithets. Through these designations, Smith allows his characters to authentically examine, choose, or even deny their cultural identities. This essay will delve into the rich tapestry of cultural identity in “White Teeth,” highlighting the evolution of names and their meanings across generations and individuals. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay The Fluidity of Names in “White Teeth” The ever-changing nature of names in the novel mirrors the fluidity of cultural identities and reflects how different generations perceive multiculturalism. For older generations, names and nicknames often pose a threat to the cultures they brought with them from their homeland. Kris Knauer's examination of intergenerational adaptation provides a valuable lens through which to understand these dynamics (Knauer 177-178). The older generation's resistance to cultural changes Samad Miah Iqbal, a character deeply rooted in the older generation, comes from a time when Bangladesh was still under British colonial rule. As a result, he experienced racial and cultural insensitivity from his British peers during his military service. His fellow soldiers, in a derogatory act, nicknamed him “Sultan,” emphasizing his status as an “other” within the British military hierarchy (Smith 73). In response, Samad responded with a derogatory nickname, highlighting the cultural insensitivity and ignorance of his peers (73). These early interactions foreshadow how Samad will grapple with concepts of multiculturalism and assimilation when he later emigrates to London. Samad's resistance to British culture is further evident when his friend Archie attempts to foster camaraderie by addressing him by the more British-sounding nickname, "Sam." Samad vehemently rejects this openness, asserting his distinctiveness and cultural separation from his British peers (94). He resists the idea of ​​ever being one of Archie's "English companions" due to the strong cultural and racial differences highlighted by his previous nickname, "Sultan". Samad's experiences exemplify the challenges posed by entrenched notions of race and culture, as discussed by Nick Bentley in his essay on "Rewriting English" (499). The Younger Generation's Adaptation to Multiculturalism In stark contrast, the younger generation in "White Teeth" shows a greater willingness to embrace British culture. Unlike their parents, who are more acutely aware of constructs such as “otherness” and “difference,” characters such as Irie and Samad's children navigate the terrain of hybridity and multiculturalism with more ease (Knauer 180). Glenard Oak, Willesden Green's secondary school, reflects this change by making 'difference' a part of the lived experience for younger generations, demonstrating changing attitudes in.