The United States appears as a possible final home in a woman’s account of belonging: she grew up there after her parents died and says she would return if she ever left her current home for good. Her attachment is strong even though she does not consider herself American, making the country a place of emotional ease rather than a settled national identity.

Personal History and Possible Return

Asked whether she might return to Biarritz to stay, the woman answers that if she leaves her present home permanently, she would go back to the United States. She spent part of her childhood there after her parents died, and imagines a future return as a choice of home rather than a continuation of travel.

Belonging Without Identification

She says she loves the United States most, associating the country and its people with confidence, openness, and bravery. At the same time, she does not feel American. Her distinction between identity and comfort gives the place its particular significance: she feels more at ease among Americans than among any other people, without claiming their national identity as her own.