SILENCE AND RESILIENCE IN BINA SHAH’S SLUM CHILD

Abstract

This paper investigates the factors contributing to the traumatic experiences of subaltern children in Pakistani Christian society. It delves deep into the painful memories and traumatic encounters of subaltern children within the confines of their homes and communities. The analysis centers on Bina Shah’s Slum Child, where the narrator, Laila, represents the collective psychological struggles of subaltern children. Drawing on Judith Lewis Herman’s concepts, it explores how silence and resilience influence the impact of trauma. Additionally, it employs insights from Shoshana Felman and Dori Laub’s works to examine the testimonial role in fictional narratives. The study concludes that subaltern children often endure trauma, significantly affecting their psychological well-being. Resolution of these inner conflicts requires confronting entrenched fears. Importantly, testimony not only gives a voice to the voiceless but also provides psychological healing. Keywords: Postcolonial Psychology, Subaltern Studies, Trauma and Recovery, Testimony, Pakistani Christian, subaltern children.