Don't Let's Go to the Dogs Tonight

Compare and contrast Fuller’s negotiation of identity with that of her mother, Nicola. How do their differing perspectives on race, nationality, and/or belonging reflect the complexities of postcolonial identity formation?

Fuller frequently describes the African landscape as both beautiful and dangerous. To what extent, if any, does Fuller’s romanticized depiction potentially perpetuate colonialist narratives of the exotic and primitive?

How does Alexandra negotiate her identity and status as a “White-African” in a postcolonial context? How does it compare to how she regarded racial hierarchies and colonial culture before independence? Do her views change? If so, how, and if not, why not?

Explore the significance of the memoir’s structure, particularly its nonlinear narrative and use of flashbacks. How does this narrative technique enhance the themes of memory, trauma, and personal history?

How does Fuller describe African culture and beliefs in Don’t Let’s Go the Dogs Tonight? Compare and contrast these depictions with those of white colonial culture and beliefs. What is the significance of the similarities and differences in these depictions?

How do the interactions between the Fuller family and Africans highlight power dynamics and racial hierarchies? How are Africans depicted?

Analyze the motivations behind white settlers’ resistance to embracing African independence and relinquishing colonial privileges. How do these motivations reflect broader themes of power and privilege? What insights does the memoir provide on the legacy of colonialism?

Examine the depiction and role of Vanessa in the text. How does Fuller characterize her sister? In what ways does she serve as a foil to Fuller’s self-portrayal?