The concept of literacy is additionally a very valuable aspect of the portrayal of colonialism. Author Rachel Langford expresses its importance and the way Diouana’s identity is ripped from her. Due to her being illiterate, when a letter is sent to Diouana by her mother, Madame and Monsieur take it upon themselves to write Diouana’s response for her. While Diouana is suffering, Madame begins to express to her mother that she is having a lovely and fulfilling time in France. Diouana becomes enraged, stating that this is not her letter. This scenario is significant to the theme of colonialism as Diouana is not allowed to develop her own life and personality. It is created for her by the colonizer, while she has no say in the matter. The film shows the true damage that colonialism can cause an individual.