In the novel Anita and Me, the story is set in a small Midlands town during the 1970s, capturing the experiences of Meena and her friendship with Anita. The narrative explores themes of cultural identity, prejudice, and societal expectations. The scene describes a typical day at school, where Meena encounters misunderstandings rooted in her Indian heritage and Anita's British upbringing. Phrases like 'fitting in' and 'standing out' highlight the tension between conformity and individuality. The author employs colloquial language and idiomatic expressions to reflect authentic dialogue, such as 'you don’t belong here' and 'just be yourself'. This context offers insight into the cultural clash experienced by the characters, emphasizing differences in background, language, and social norms. The quote 'struggling to find her place' embodies Meena's internal conflict, while the phrase 'Britishness versus Indian-ness' encapsulates the central tension. These elements set the scene for analysing how language reveals cultural identity and conflict.