London

The British capital of London is the broad-strokes setting for the narrative. All the characters live and work within the boundaries of the city, and are influenced by its history of being a point of arrival, perhaps even of refuge, for ethnic communities from all over the world. The characters are also influenced, in varying degrees, by other aspects of life in London: elements of racism, elements of violence, and elements of it being a hub of financial and artistic activity in England, and in Europe.

Brixton

Brixton is the division of London in which Queenie and her family make their home. It is known for being ethnically and culturally diverse, but is also known as the setting for a number of violent race riots over the past several decades. In her narration, Queenie makes several comments about how the culturally welcoming qualities and atmosphere of Brixton have...