Thinking Activity: 'Orlando' by Virginia Woolf

Hello readers, I'm writing this blog as a response to the task given by the Department of English, MKBU. Here, In this blog I'm trying to interpret the movie 'Vita and Virginia' and 'Orlando'. I also try to give answers to the questions which are given by Megha ma'am.

Movie Review on 'Orlando' 

"Orlando: A Biography" is a novel by Virginia Woolf that was published in 1928. It was later adapted into a film by director Sally Potter in 1992. The movie is a romantic, historical, and surrealistic drama that tells the story of an immortal young man named Orlando, who experiences various transformations throughout four centuries of English history.

The film follows the life of Orlando, played by Tilda Swinton, who starts as a young nobleman in Elizabethan England. Orlando falls in love with a Russian princess, Sasha, played by Charlotte Valandrey, who departs unexpectedly. Orlando then embarks on a journey of self-discovery, which ultimately leads to his transformation into a woman. Orlando remains ageless, and the film takes the viewer on a journey through four centuries of English history, during which the protagonist encounters various historical figures, including Queen Elizabeth I, played by Quentin Crisp, and the poet Alexander Pope, played by John Wood.

As Orlando continues to exist through time, she must navigate the changes in English society, including gender roles and sexual orientation. The film explores themes of gender identity, sexuality, and the fluidity of time, all while maintaining a whimsical and surrealistic tone. Swinton's androgynous looks and performance add to the film's surrealist and dreamlike quality, which at times feels like an exploration of the subconscious.

The movie also highlights the limitations and expectations placed on women throughout history. As a woman, Orlando must contend with the limitations of her gender in a male-dominated society. However, she also experiences the freedom and possibilities that come with transcending gender norms.

Overall, "Orlando" is a visually stunning and thought-provoking film that challenges traditional notions of gender, sexuality, and identity. It explores the idea of transformation and self-discovery, encouraging the audience to consider the ways in which society shapes our understanding of ourselves and others. The film also showcases the rich history of England, and how the attitudes and values of each era have shaped the society we know today. 

Similarities and Differences between "Vita and Virginia" and "Orlando"

Similarities:

Both films are based on the life and work of Virginia Woolf, with "Vita and Virginia" focusing on her romantic relationship with Vita Sackville-West, and "Orlando" being an adaptation of Woolf's novel of the same name.

Both movies explore themes of gender and sexuality, with "Vita and Virginia" depicting a romantic relationship between two women, and "Orlando" featuring a protagonist who transforms from a man to a woman.

Both films are set in England, with "Orlando" spanning several centuries of English history, and "Vita and Virginia" taking place primarily in the 1920s and 1930s.

Both movies feature strong female characters who challenge societal norms and expectations, with Virginia Woolf, Vita Sackville-West, and Orlando all defying traditional gender roles and expectations.

Differences:

The focus of each movie is different, with "Vita and Virginia" primarily exploring the romantic relationship between Virginia Woolf and Vita Sackville-West, while "Orlando" is focused on the protagonist's transformation and the exploration of time and history.

The visual styles of the two movies are different, with "Vita and Virginia" being more naturalistic and grounded in its approach, while "Orlando" is more surrealistic and whimsical.

The main characters in each movie are different, with "Vita and Virginia" featuring Virginia Woolf and Vita Sackville-West, while "Orlando" features the fictional character of Orlando.

The time periods of the two movies are different, with "Vita and Virginia" being set primarily in the 1920s and 1930s, while "Orlando" spans several centuries of English history.

Thus, while "Vita and Virginia" and "Orlando" share some similarities, they also have distinct differences in terms of focus, style, characters, and time periods. Both films are rich and thought-provoking explorations of gender, sexuality, and societal norms, and are worth watching for anyone interested in these themes. 

1)How far do you feel that Orlando is influenced by Vita and Virginia’s love affair? Does it talk only about that or do you find anything else too?

While it is clear that Virginia Woolf's relationship with Vita Sackville-West influenced her writing of the novel "Orlando", the film adaptation directed by Sally Potter is not solely about their love affair.

The film "Orlando" explores many themes beyond the scope of Virginia Woolf's personal life, including gender, identity, and the passage of time. The protagonist, Orlando, is a character who transforms from a man to a woman over several centuries, exploring the fluidity and complexity of gender identity. The film also examines the historical and cultural context in which Orlando lives, spanning several centuries of English history and reflecting on issues of power, class, and colonialism.

While the relationship between Virginia Woolf and Vita Sackville-West may have inspired some elements of the novel and the film adaptation, it is only one of many influences on the story. "Orlando" is a complex and multifaceted work that explores a range of themes and ideas, and it is not limited to the personal lives of its creator or the people who inspired it.

2)Who do you think is confused about their identity Vita or Virginia? Explain with illustrations.

Both Vita Sackville-West and Virginia Woolf struggled with issues related to gender and identity, and it is difficult to say who was more confused. Both women lived in a time when social norms and expectations around gender and sexuality were very different from what they are today. Vita's fluidity in terms of gender and sexuality allowed her to move more easily between different social and cultural spheres. Virginia's writing was an attempt to grapple with her own sense of self and to explore the boundaries of gender and identity in a time when such topics were not widely discussed. 

3)What is society’s thought about women and identity? Do you agree with them? If Yes then why? If not then why?

Historically, society's thoughts about women and identity have been shaped by patriarchal norms and expectations, which have often limited women's opportunities for self-expression and self-discovery. Women have been expected to conform to rigid gender roles, and they have often been punished for stepping outside of those roles or expressing their true selves.

However, in recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of allowing women to explore their identities and express themselves in ways that feel authentic and true. This has been reflected in a number of cultural shifts, including a greater acceptance of diverse gender identities and a greater emphasis on empowering women to pursue their passions and interests. 

It is important to recognize the importance of allowing individuals, regardless of gender, to explore their identities and express themselves in ways that feel true and authentic to them. Society's thoughts about women and identity are changing, and we must continue to work towards a world in which all individuals are free to be themselves without fear of judgment or persecution.

4) What are your views on Gender Identity? Would you like to give any message to society?

Gender identity is a deeply personal aspect of one's identity, and individuals should be able to express themselves in a way that feels authentic to them. Society should create safe spaces, challenge stereotypes, and advocate for policies that promote gender equality and respect for all genders. The message to society should be one of acceptance, inclusivity, and support for individuals of all gender identities, free from discrimination.

5)Write a note on the direction of the movie. Which symbols and space caught your attention while watching the movie? 

Sally Potter directed the movie "Orlando", and her direction is a significant contributor to the film's impact and success. Here are some observations about the direction of the movie and the symbols and spaces that caught our attention:

Direction:

Potter's direction is creative and imaginative, using techniques such as surrealism and magical realism to tell the story of Orlando's transformation over several centuries.

She creates a dreamlike atmosphere, using soft lighting, flowing costumes, and natural landscapes to evoke a sense of fantasy and otherworldliness.

Potter uses bold visual imagery to convey the film's themes and ideas, such as the recurring symbol of water, which represents change and transformation.

She also makes use of music and sound to enhance the film's emotional impact, with a haunting score by composer David Motion.

Symbols and Space:

The film's use of natural landscapes, such as the English countryside and the frozen river, evoke a sense of the passage of time and the transience of life.

The use of mirrors and reflections throughout the film represents the idea of identity and self-perception, as Orlando confronts his changing appearance and gender identity.

The presence of clocks and timepieces represents the passage of time and the impermanence of human existence.

The presence of water in various forms, such as rivers, rain, and oceans, symbolizes the fluidity and changeability of identity and gender.

Sally Potter's direction of "Orlando" is highly effective in conveying the film's themes and ideas, using creative and imaginative techniques to create a dreamlike atmosphere and convey a sense of the passage of time and the fluidity of identity. The film's use of symbolism and space is subtle yet impactful, drawing the viewer's attention to the central themes of gender, identity, and transformation.

6)"Vita and Virginia" had to be made into a Bollywood Adaptation. Who do you think would be fit for the role of Vita and Virginia? 

For the role of Vita, someone like Tabu or Sonakshi Sinha, who have a strong screen presence and can play complex and nuanced characters, could be a good fit. 

For Virginia, an actor like Dipika Padukone or, who has a reputation for playing unconventional roles and exploring challenging themes, could be a good choice.

Word Count: 1615

Interpretation of Samuel Beckett's "Breath"

Hello readers, I'm writing this blog as a response to the task  given by the Department of English, MKBU. Here, In this blog I'm trying to interpret the play "Breath" by Samuel Beckett (Damien Hirst's version).

"Breath" is a short play by Samuel Beckett. The play is a powerful exploration of life, death, and the cyclical nature of existence. The play opens with the sound of a sharp intake of breath, followed by a series of disjointed images and sounds. Through this fragmented structure, Beckett seeks to convey the fleeting and ephemeral nature of life itself.

The play opens with a sudden, sharp inhalation of breath, which is followed by the sound of a baby crying, suggesting the beginning of life. The rest of the play is a series of disjointed images and sounds that appear to be random and meaningless at first. However, upon closer inspection, they reveal a deeper meaning. The sounds of an amplified heartbeat and the rhythm of a clock ticking suggest the passing of time and the inevitability of death. The sound of a man groaning implies pain and suffering, which is an inevitable part of life.

The play's most striking image is that of a man struggling to get up, only to collapse back down to the ground. This image can be interpreted as a representation of the futility of human endeavor in the face of the overwhelming forces of life and death. The play ends with the sound of the sharp exhalation of breath, which could be interpreted as the final breath of a dying person.

There is also a reference to Adolf Hitler's Nazism. This can be seen as a powerful commentary on the brutality of totalitarian regimes and the way in which they seek to control and suppress life.

Beckett, who lived through both World War I and World War II, was deeply affected by the horrors of the wars and the rise of totalitarianism in Europe. The reference to Nazism in "Breath" can be seen as an expression of Beckett's abhorrence of such regimes and the ways in which they seek to dehumanize and control people.

In conclusion, we can say that Beckett presents a powerful commentary on the human condition, and the cyclical nature of existence. The play is a reminder that life is fleeting and that death is an inevitability. Through its fragmented structure and evocative imagery, "Breath" speaks to the very essence of what it means to be human.

Thinking Activity: Northrop Frye

Hello readers, I'm writing this blog as a response to the task of the Department of English, MKBU. In this blog I'm discussing some questions about the essay of Northrop Frye 'The Archetypal Criticism' which are given by Dilip Barad sir. These questions are answered by ChatGPT OpenAI with a few corrections by me. 

1)What is Archetypal Criticism? (ChatGPT)

Archetypal criticism is a literary theory that explores the use of archetypes in literature. Archetypes are recurring symbols, motifs, or character types that represent universal patterns of human experience. They are deeply ingrained in the collective unconscious and are part of the common heritage of all humanity.

Archetypal critics seek to identify and interpret these patterns in literature, looking for the ways in which authors use archetypes to convey meaning and create a powerful emotional impact on readers. They often draw on the work of psychologist Carl Jung, who first developed the concept of the collective unconscious and identified several archetypes that are common to all cultures and time periods.

Archetypal criticism can be used to analyze a wide variety of literary works, from myths and legends to contemporary novels and films. Critics might examine the use of archetypal images, such as the hero, the trickster, or the mother figure, as well as the recurring themes and motifs that appear in different works. The goal is to gain a deeper understanding of the human experience and the ways in which literature reflects and shapes our understanding of the world. 

2)What is the contribution of Northrop Frye in Archetypal Criticism?(ChatGPT)

Northrop Frye was a Canadian literary critic who made significant contributions to the field of archetypal criticism. Frye believed that literature reflects universal patterns of human experience and that the study of archetypes can help us better understand these patterns.

One of Frye's most influential works is his book "Anatomy of Criticism," which offers a comprehensive framework for understanding literary criticism. In this book, Frye identifies four archetypal narrative modes that he called "mythos," each of which is associated with a particular genre of literature:

Comedy: a narrative mode that celebrates the human capacity for transformation and growth, often through the use of ironic humor.

Tragedy: a narrative mode that explores the limitations of human agency and the inevitability of suffering and death.

Romance: a narrative mode that focuses on the individual's search for fulfillment, often through a quest or journey.

Irony: a narrative mode that subverts and destabilizes traditional narratives and conventions, often through the use of satire or parody.

Frye also identified a number of archetypal character types and themes that recur throughout literature, such as the hero, the villain, the journey, and the struggle between good and evil. He argued that these archetypes are not merely literary conventions, but are deeply rooted in human psychology and the collective unconscious.

Overall, Frye's work in archetypal criticism has had a significant impact on literary studies, providing a framework for understanding the deep structures of literature and their relationship to human experience.

3)What do Archetypal critics do? Explain with examples.(ChatGPT)

Archetypal critics analyze literature through the lens of archetypal patterns and symbols. They identify and interpret the use of archetypes in literary works and seek to understand how these patterns relate to human experience.

For example, an archetypal critic might examine the use of the hero archetype in J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings." The hero archetype is a common and recognizable pattern in literature, representing the idealized version of the human journey of self-discovery and growth. In "The Lord of the Rings," the hero archetype is embodied by the character of Frodo Baggins, who embarks on a perilous quest to destroy the One Ring and save Middle Earth.

The archetypal critic might analyze how Tolkien uses the hero archetype to create a sense of epic grandeur and mythic significance in his story. They might explore the ways in which Frodo embodies the classic traits of the hero archetype, such as courage, determination, and a willingness to sacrifice himself for the greater good. They might also examine how other archetypes, such as the mentor, the trickster, or the shadow, interact with the hero archetype in the story.

Another example of archetypal criticism is the analysis of the mother archetype in Toni Morrison's "Beloved." The mother archetype is a universal symbol representing nurturing, protection, and love. In "Beloved," the character of Sethe embodies the mother archetype as she struggles to protect her daughter from the horrors of slavery and their traumatic past.

The archetypal critic might analyze how Morrison uses the mother archetype to explore the themes of love, sacrifice, and the bonds of family. They might examine how the mother archetype interacts with other archetypes, such as the shadow, the journey, or the trickster, in the novel. By doing so, they can gain a deeper understanding of the novel's themes and messages and the ways in which they relate to universal patterns of human experience.

Overall, the archetypal critic seeks to uncover the underlying patterns and symbols that give a literary work its power and meaning, and to explore how these patterns relate to the human experience. By doing so, they can deepen our understanding and appreciation of literature, and help us to see the connections between different works across time and culture. 

4)"Every organized body of knowledge can be learned progressively; and experience shows that there is also something progressive about the learning of literature. Our opening sentence has already got us into a semantic difficulty." Explain the semantic difficulty.(ChatGPT)

The semantic difficulty referred to in the quote is the use of the word "progressive." This word has multiple meanings and can be interpreted in different ways, which can lead to confusion and ambiguity.

On one hand, "progressive" can mean "moving forward or advancing in stages." In this sense, the statement suggests that literary knowledge can be acquired in a systematic and incremental way, with each new stage building upon the previous one.

On the other hand, "progressive" can also mean "favoring or advocating progress, change, improvement, or reform." In this sense, the statement might suggest that literary knowledge is constantly evolving and changing, and that what is considered important or valuable in literature may shift over time.

The difficulty arises because the two meanings of "progressive" are not necessarily mutually exclusive, and the statement does not clearly specify which one is intended. Depending on how the reader interprets the word, they may have different expectations or understandings of how literary knowledge is acquired and how it changes over time.

Overall, the semantic difficulty highlights the importance of clarity and precision in language, particularly in academic or intellectual discourse where subtle distinctions can have significant implications.

Above answer is given by ChatGPT. There are some mistakes in this answer, but according to Northrop Frye, the semantic difficulty in the opening sentence is the use of the phrase "learning literature." While one can learn about literature, it may be more accurate to say that one learns the criticism of literature, which is the analysis and interpretation of literary works. Therefore, the act of "learning literature" is more accurately described as the process of learning about literature through the study of literary criticism.

5)"The relation of criticism to religion, when they deal with the same documents, is more complicated. In criticism, as in history, the divine is always treated as a human artifact. God for the critic, whether he finds him in Paradise Lost or the Bible, is a character in a human story".(ChatGPT)

The statement suggests that the relationship between criticism and religion is complex, particularly when both deal with the same documents, such as the Bible or Paradise Lost. It points out that criticism and history approach the divine differently than religion does, treating it as a human artifact. When a critic or historian looks at religious texts, they approach them from a scholarly perspective, examining their historical context, language, style, and meaning.

This approach assumes that these texts were created by human authors, who used their cultural and historical context to convey their ideas and beliefs about the divine. Therefore, when a critic or historian encounters God in a religious text, they treat it as a character in a human story. In other words, they do not approach the divine as a transcendent, supernatural entity but rather as a literary construct or human invention.

This approach can be seen in the field of biblical criticism, which aims to understand the historical and cultural context of the Bible and to examine its texts as literary and cultural artifacts. Similarly, literary criticism of works such as Paradise Lost also treats religious themes and motifs as human creations, subject to interpretation and analysis.

Overall, the statement highlights the tension between religion and scholarship, particularly in their different approaches to understanding the divine. While religion approaches the divine as a transcendent reality that is beyond human understanding, criticism and history approach it as a literary and cultural construct, subject to human interpretation and analysis. 

Above answer is given by ChatGPT, to add to this answer we can also say that God is not necessarily viewed as a real or supernatural entity, but rather as a literary creation that can be analyzed and interpreted within the context of the text. This approach is similar to the way a historian might study a religious text as a product of its cultural and historical context.

On the other hand, for religious believers, God is not simply a human artifact, but a real and divine being with supernatural powers and influence. They may view religious texts as sacred and authoritative, not subject to the same literary or historical analysis as secular texts. 

Word count: 1562

Thinking Activity: War Poetry

Hello readers, I'm writing this blog as an assignment given by the Department of English, MKBU. In this post, I will be exploring the idea of war poetry in comparison to the Bollywood movie "Shershaah." The art of war poetry has been around for centuries, and it has captured the emotions, experiences, and the brutal realities of war. It has allowed poets to express their feelings towards war in different ways, some through personal experiences or the experiences of others. On the other hand, war films have also become a popular medium to depict the horrors of war and the sacrifices of those who fought for their country. In this assignment, we will delve into the comparison of war poetry with bollywood movie "Shershaah," analyzing how both forms of art portray the human cost of war and the heroism of soldiers who risk their lives to defend their nation. 

Plot Construction:

Shershaah is a Hindi-language biographical war film released in 2021, directed by Vishnuvardhan and produced by Karan Johar. The film tells the story of Captain Vikram Batra, a courageous Indian Army officer who sacrificed his life during the Kargil War in 1999.

The movie begins with Vikram Batra (played by Sidharth Malhotra), a young and ambitious man from a small town in Himachal Pradesh, who dreams of joining the Indian Army. He meets Dimple Cheema (played by Kiara Advani) during his college days, and they fall in love. However, Vikram is determined to serve his country and decides to join the army.

Vikram is commissioned as a lieutenant in the Indian Army and is later posted in Jammu and Kashmir. The region is under constant threat from Pakistan-backed militants, and Vikram's unit is deployed to fight against them. During his time in the army, Vikram earns a reputation for his bravery and is nicknamed "Shershaah," which means "Lion King."

In 1999, Pakistan-backed militants infiltrated the Indian side of the Line of Control in Kargil, and a war broke out between India and Pakistan. Vikram's unit is sent to recapture the strategic peak of Point 4875. During the operation, Vikram leads his men from the front and captures the peak, but he is seriously injured in the process.

While being evacuated from the battlefield, Vikram realizes that some of his fellow soldiers are still trapped on the peak. Despite his injuries, he insists on going back to rescue them. He is successful in rescuing his comrades, but he is fatally wounded in the process.

The film ends with a tribute to Vikram Batra and his sacrifice for the country. It is revealed that Dimple Cheema never married and continued to love Vikram even after his death.

Shershaah is a poignant and emotional tribute to a brave soldier who gave his life for the nation. The film highlights the importance of courage, sacrifice, and patriotism and has won critical acclaim for its portrayal of the Kargil War and the heroism of the Indian soldiers.

Analysis of the movie:

"Shershaah" is a Bollywood movie released in 2021, directed by Vishnuvardhan and produced by Karan Johar, based on the life of Captain Vikram Batra, an Indian Army officer who was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India's highest military honor, for his actions during the Kargil War in 1999. The movie stars Sidharth Malhotra in the lead role as Captain Batra and Kiara Advani as his love interest, Dimple Cheema.

The movie is a biopic that tells the story of Captain Batra's life from his childhood in Himachal Pradesh to his entry into the Indian Military Academy, his training, and ultimately his deployment to the frontlines during the Kargil War. The movie also showcases the important role played by his family, friends, and colleagues in his life.

The movie is a tribute to the bravery and courage of Captain Batra and the soldiers who fought during the Kargil War. The film does justice to his life story and portrays him as a true patriot who was willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for his country.

The movie is divided into two parts, with the first part focusing on Captain Batra's personal life and his journey to become an Army officer. The second part focuses on the Kargil War and his role in the war. The first part of the movie does an excellent job of introducing the audience to the characters and the world of the military. It also shows the challenges that Captain Batra faced in his personal life, such as his love for Dimple and his decision to join the Army despite his family's objections.

The second part of the movie is where the action and drama truly begin. The movie shows the harsh realities of war, the danger, and the sacrifices that soldiers have to make. The film captures the essence of the Kargil War, the emotions, and the struggles of the soldiers fighting on the frontlines. The movie is full of heart-stopping moments, and the action scenes are well-executed, capturing the audience's attention and keeping them engaged throughout.

The performances of the actors are outstanding, with Sidharth Malhotra delivering one of the best performances of his career. He is convincing in his portrayal of Captain Batra, capturing his charm, bravery, and dedication to his country. Kiara Advani also gives a remarkable performance as Dimple, Captain Batra's love interest. She plays the role with sincerity and grace, capturing the emotions and the struggles of the character.

The movie's direction and screenplay are also commendable. The director, Vishnuvardhan, does an excellent job of capturing the essence of the story and bringing it to life on the big screen. The cinematography is outstanding, and the film's visuals are breathtaking. The music and background score by Sandeep Shirodkar are also noteworthy and add to the overall impact of the movie.

One of the significant strengths of the movie is that it humanizes the soldiers who fought in the Kargil War. It shows their emotions, their struggles, and their sacrifices. It also portrays the Indian Army as a force to be reckoned with, full of brave soldiers who are willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

However, the movie does have a few drawbacks. The film's pacing is slow in the first half, and some of the scenes feel stretched out. Also, the movie does not explore the political aspect of the Kargil War in detail, which was a critical factor in the conflict.

The film's depiction of war and the bravery of soldiers resonates strongly with war poetry, and several key themes can be identified.

Thematic Study of the movie:

1) Sacrifice:

One of the most prominent themes in the film is the idea of sacrifice. Vikram Batra was known for his bravery and his willingness to put himself in harm's way to save his comrades. In the film, we see how he selflessly volunteers for dangerous missions, always putting the welfare of his men before his own safety. This is a common theme in war poetry, where soldiers are often praised for their selflessness and willingness to sacrifice themselves for their country and their fellow soldiers.

2)Sense of brotherhood:

Another theme in the film is the sense of brotherhood and camaraderie among soldiers. In "Shershaah," we see how Batra forms strong bonds with his fellow soldiers, especially his brother Vishal, with whom he shares a deep connection. This idea of brotherhood is a recurring theme in war poetry, where soldiers are often depicted as being part of a larger family, united by a common goal and a shared sense of duty.

3) Patriotism:

The film also explores the idea of patriotism, as Vikram Batra and his comrades fight for their country's honor and dignity. In war poetry, patriotism is a common theme, with soldiers often being portrayed as fighting for their country's honor, and for the ideals and values that it represents.

4) Horror of War:

The film's depiction of the horrors of war also resonates with war poetry. We see how soldiers are affected by the violence and trauma of the battlefield, and how they struggle to cope with the loss of their comrades. This is a common theme in war poetry, which often portrays soldiers as being scarred by their experiences in battle, and struggling to make sense of the violence and destruction that they have witnessed.

In conclusion, "Shershaah" is a powerful and emotionally charged film that pays tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of soldiers like Vikram Batra. Its themes of sacrifice, brotherhood, patriotism, and the horrors of war are all central to war poetry, making the film a fitting tribute to those who have fought and died for their country.

Word Count: 1443 

Thinking Activity - IAR - Practical Criticism - Figurative language

Hello readers, I'm writing this blog as a thinking activity given by the Department of English, MKBU. In this blog I am going to discuss a Poetry by Emily Dickinson named 'I'm nobody! Who are you? 

About Poet (Emily Dickinson):

Emily Elizabeth Dickinson was born on December 10, 1830 at Amherst, Massachusetts, U.S. and died on May 15, 1886 at Amherst. She was an American lyric poet who lived in seclusion and commanded a singular brilliance of style and integrity of vision. With Walt Whitman, Dickinson is widely considered to be one of the two leading 19th-century American poets.

Poem: (I ’M nobody! Who are you?):

I ’M nobody! Who are you?

Are you nobody, too?

Then there ’s a pair of us—don’t tell!

They ’d banish us, you know.

How dreary to be somebody!

How public, like a frog

To tell your name the livelong day

To an admiring bog!

Problematization of the poem:

1)Nobody - You can't be 'nobody' if you are a living human being.

Resolve: The speaker in this poem is not specified, but identifies themselves as 'Nobody', which means being private and humble. Poet is talking about a person who avoided the public eye and has an importance of privacy. It also suggests the importance of knowing how to be alone, and to find self worth that isn’t dependent on external approval.

2)Words like 'They' and 'Somebody' - It is not clear for whom these words are used.

Resolve: In the poem 'Somebody' and 'They' means those who live boring lives in search of attention and admiration. people whose lives are governed by garnering attention and being liked. 

3)To be somebody like a frog - Here the poet compared somebody with a frog but it is not clear who are somebodies? and why are they like frogs?

Resolve: In the poem, the speaker compares being a 'Somebody' to being like a frog. This frog is a 'public' creature, which refers to the fact that frogs announce their presence via loud croaks, while all the other frogs around them do the same thing. This comparison suggests that 'Somebodies', too, like to talk about themselves all the 'livelong' day to other 'Somebodies'. The frog here represents how vacuous and, frankly, annoying this tendency can be.

4)Admiring bog - A 'bog' isn't exactly a nice place, it is a smelly and swampy place, though it is used with the word 'admiring'.

Resolve: Through this metaphor the poet wants to say that bog makes being surrounded by 'Somebodies' seem like a less than pleasant experience.

Analysis of the poem:

(This response is taken with the help of ChatGPT and the prompt is 'Generate an analysis of the poem 'I'm nobody! Who are you?' by Emily Dickinson.)

In this poem, at a very first stanza the poet introduces herself as 'Nobody' and asks the person she's addressing if they are nobody, too. The use of the word 'Nobody' might seem paradoxical at first, since it is commonly associated with insignificance and a lack of status. However, the speaker's declaration of being 'Nobody' is not a statement of self-depreciation, but rather a declaration of independence from the constraints of society and the pressures of fame. 'Nobody' means being private and humble. Poet is talking about a person who avoided the public eye and has an importance of privacy. 

Then the poet expresses excitement at the possibility that they have found someone else who is also 'Nobody'. They see this as creating a special bond between them. She also warns the person they are addressing not to reveal their status as 'Nobody', as it may lead to unwanted attention or recognition from others by saying "They ’d banish us, you know".

In the second stanza, the poet used the word 'Somebody', which means those who live boring lives in search of attention and admiration. people whose lives are governed by garnering attention and being liked. Here, the Poet reflects on the negative aspects of being someone who is well-known and recognized by society. They see it as dreary and unappealing. She compares being 'Somebody' to being like a frog, which is often seen and heard, but not necessarily appreciated or valued. The poet concludes the comparison, saying that being somebody is like being admired by a bog, she imagines the 'Somebody' being like a frog, who is admired by a bog, which is a wetland area. This reinforces the idea that being well-known may not necessarily bring true fulfillment or happiness.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the speaker of the poem is happy to be a nobody and finds the idea of being somebody unappealing. The poem reflects Dickinson's introspective nature and her preference for solitude and anonymity.

Thinking Activity: Waiting for Godot

Hello readers, I'm writing this blog as a response to Dilip Barad sir's task. Here, I'm trying to answer some questions about Samuel Beckett's 'Waiting for Godot'.

Que 1) Why does Beckett grow a few leaves in Act II on the barren tree - The tree has four or five leaves?

->In the first scene the tree was destroyed so we can interpret and connect it with world war-2 because this play was written just after war and in the second act this tree has leaves so it stands for changing nature. Tree suggest the presence of nature in the ruined setting. In fact, Hopelessness presented through it because a tree without a leaf is like life without breath. But, in act II there are few leaves growing on barren tree. It shows the hope of rebirth. Beckett very cleverly highlights the indifference nature of human being through this tree, as in real society also, when someone is suffering, then the other will be happy or celebrating their happy days, no one cares about the suffering. Humans always remain indifferent towards the suffering of others. 

 

Que 2) Can we do any political reading of the play if we see European nations represented by the 'names' of the characters (Vladimir- Russia; Estragon - France; Pozzo - Italy and Lucky-England)? What interpretation can be inferred from the play written just after World War II? Which country stands for 'Godot'?

->This interpretation can be inferred from the play written just after World War II. All these countries were lost in their gimmicks and passing time in wait for something good to come out. What actually turned out to be the end of Waiting, in the form of Godot, was the Second World War and the rise of Hitler. Thus, Germany stands for Godot as per this view. European nations represented by the names of the characters. Vladimir represents Russia and Estragon represents France. There is a history of power politics between France and Russia. Many Russians are in favor of France and many against and vice versa. But still they are together just like Estragon and Vladimir.

Pozzo represents Italy and Lucky represents England, as in political reading Italy tries to impose their ideas and rule over England.

Germany stands for Godot. As Hitler was ruling in Germany, and the way he excommunicated the Jews from his country is very much significant and relevant to the play. Both the tramps one or another way thrown by their nations. The way they wait for Godot is similar to the way Jews wait for Hitler to accept them. 

Que 3) In Act I, in reply to Boy's question:

"BOY: What am I to tell Mr. Godot, Sir?

VLADIMIR: Tell him... (he hesitates)... tell him you saw us. (Pause.) You did see us, didn't you?

How does this conversation go in Act II? What is the significance?

->The change in both the acts between Vladimir and the messenger, boy is very significant. In the Act 1 Vladimir tells the boy to tell Godot that you saw us. In a way Vladimir wants the boy to describe their situation. How they are suffering and how they eagerly want to get rid of it. In human life also, we want God to look at our situation and will do something to make our pain less. We always hope that God will change our fortune and will turn our sad days into happy days but this will never happen. In Act 2 Vladimir tells the boy to tell Godot that you saw me. Here, Vladimir wants to save only his life at the end of the play. He seems selfish.

Que 4) In both Acts, evening falls into night and moon rises. How would you interpret this 'coming of night and moon' when actually they are waiting for Godot?

->Beckett wants to highlight the indifferent nature. As Nature never waits for anyone, it doesn't matter whether a person is sad or happy, nature never cares for them. The natural process of the environment never stops for anyone. Similarly in this play Vladimir and Estragon are waiting for Godot, and in this process of waiting they do various things to pass their time, sometimes they feel totally disappointed. But these all things make no change in nature, the day begins as it used to be and night comes as it is, without any change. 

Que 5) What is the meaning of the terms 'Apathia, Aphasia and Athambia' in Lucky's speech? "... divine apathia divine athambia divine aphasia loves us dearly with some exceptions for reasons unknown…"

->In Lucky's speech, he said three words like Aphasia, Apathia and Athambia. Aphasia means a loss of speech, an inability to speak or communicate, Here it refers to the fact that God from his divine heights now has divine aphasia or a divine silence. Apathia means lacking emotion and Athambia means being unflappable.

Que 6) 'A better solution to the tramp's predicament than to wait is, suicide". Is it really so? Why they fail to commit suicide?

->The idea of sucide is mentioned as a possible solution to their predicament. The play suggests that the tramp's lack of agency and lack of meaning in their lives renders them unable to take action, even to end their own suffering. suicide is not the solution but a part of their struggle.

Que 7) Explain: "Godot might become as image of what Sartre calls "Bad Faith".

-> In Jean- Paul Sartre's philosophy, "Bad Faith" refers to the state in which an individual denies their own freedom and authenticity, instead choosing to conform to societal expectations or to hide behind false beliefs about themselves. Here, In 'Waiting for Godot' the characters of Vladimir and Estragon are seen as embodying this concept as they spend the entirety of the play waiting for the mysterious Godot, who never arrives. Their passivity and lack of agency in the face of their existential Predicament can be seen as a form of bad faith.

Que 8) Explain:"One hardly feels the absurdity of some things, on the one hand, and the necessity of those other things, on the other, (for it is rare that feeling of absurdity is not followed by the feeling of necessity), when one feels the absurdity of those things of which one had just felt the necessity (for it is rare that the feeling of necessity is not followed by the feeling of absurdity)"

->This statement is discussing the idea that things that may seem absurd or unnecessary at one point in time can later be seen as necessary and vice versa. It's suggesting that one's perspective can change and that thing that once seemed absurd. Similarly, things that once seemed absurd may later be seen as necessary. It's a reminder that one's understanding of something can evolve over time.

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