The novel, "Such a Long Journey", by Rohinton Ministry seems like an interesting novel based on all the critical acclaims about it, but I can already guess why it's so celebrated by English teachers and students alike. The title itself symbolizes and even foreshadows a moral or even physical conflict or adventure on this path we call life, and because novels are centered around the human condition, it's possible that this book will and most certainly reach out to the hearts of its readers.
First of all, the novel takes place in Bombay, India in 1971; an era where political tension and conflicts are taking place on the international stage. It's obvious that these tensions will affect the protagonist, Gustad Noble, and his family in some sort of manner. The first two chapters of the novel are an introduction to his family and simple life. We are introduced to Dilnavaz, his wife, and their three children, Darius, Roshan and the eldest, Sohrab, who has recently been accepted into the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology. The loving family lives in the Khodadad building with Miss Kutpitia as the mean landlord. In this building, the reader becomes aware of how the water supply only runs from five to seven am, how rodents are a problem in the building, and how there is always a risk of being in danger due to the political tension between China and India. Already, there is an element of danger and a factor of poverty introduced to the reader. Milk is a staple product in the Indian culture, and praying every morning at every set interval is a must.
The general market is named Crawford Market, and it makes Gustad very intimidated when he travels to this place because there are butchers who know how to use their knives. Malcolm Sadanha, a Christian, is his close friend, and there's this tension between Gustad and his former neighbour Major Bilimoria who just walked out and left one day. Another interesting thing about this chapter so far is that there's an awareness of mental illness. Tehmul, this guy who used to be intelligent was in an accident one day, and now speaks in an incoherent manner to many people, with the exception of Gustad who can actually understand him.
There is an overwhelming amount of characters that the reader will have to soon distinguish between as either static or dynamic and of course this relates to character development and possible themes of the human condition as a result. What ikrs me about this novel so far is a minor detail. Have you guys noticed how some of the names are so anglicized? Is this a literary element done on purpose I have no idea, but names such as Gustad, Malcolm, and Darius seem so unconventional and to me only proves that the author may have wanted to reveal a westernized influence on India, as India had been previously colonized by the British.
Other than that, nothing big has happened yet so far.
Till next time,
Alexander Truong
Friday 16 March 2012
Saturday 18 February 2012
The Wars - Last thoughts.
"Never which that is shall die" - Euripedes
My interpretation?
Stay true to your intentions for your legacy will reflect the honour and life you strive for. Your life is your life and no matter what screws up, you will live on.
This song in my opinion, reflects the entire book and should be the theme song for it haha. It's "Never too late" by Three Days Grace!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lL2ZwXj1tXM&feature=player_embedded#!
If you're visiting my blog for the first time, I'm aware that it's plot driven and contains many direct quotations out of the book. But rest assured, there are ideas and insights throughout the posts. If you're looking for a good post to read on the general consensus of the novel, skip to my second post on the author, Timothy Findley! Happy readings.
My next entries? Their Eyes were watching God. :)
Till next time,
Alexander Truong.
My interpretation?
Stay true to your intentions for your legacy will reflect the honour and life you strive for. Your life is your life and no matter what screws up, you will live on.
This song in my opinion, reflects the entire book and should be the theme song for it haha. It's "Never too late" by Three Days Grace!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lL2ZwXj1tXM&feature=player_embedded#!
If you're visiting my blog for the first time, I'm aware that it's plot driven and contains many direct quotations out of the book. But rest assured, there are ideas and insights throughout the posts. If you're looking for a good post to read on the general consensus of the novel, skip to my second post on the author, Timothy Findley! Happy readings.
My next entries? Their Eyes were watching God. :)
Till next time,
Alexander Truong.
The Wars - The Final Post
From reading 'The Wars', I can honestly admit that the novel had me on the edge of my seat. For the last 30 pages of the book or so, it had moments of sadness, happiness, and excitement. From what I can tell you, I have mixed feelings about all the actions and final plot details given near the end of the book because I would have given up reading it if it wasn't mandatory. But I'm glad I got to the end! It was enjoyable.
Chapter 4 Recap - The reader is introduced to radio transcripts/interviews by Juliet D'Orsey, the sister of Barbara D'Orsey. Juliet has intimate moments with Robert Ross and loves him so very dearly. Love and acceptance is a universal theme that obviously plays itself throughout the novel.
There are several intriguing plot twists that happen in the last chapter of this novel.
First of all, Robert Ross becomes a victim of rape. It is so tragic and the event is described in such detail that the reader cringes for Ross loses a sort of innocence as he is 'dirtied' up by possibly his fellow soldiers. It happens from pages 190 to 193.
"Someone struck him in the face. Robert began to pass out. He could feel himself being lifted into the air again and turned around and made to lie on his face with one man still underneath him and now with another on top. All he could feel was the shape of the man who entered him and the terrible strength of the force with which it was done. His assailants, who he'd thought were crazies, had been his fellow soldiers. Maybe even his brother officers. He'd never know. He never saw their faces.
The idea of homosexuality is brought up again near the end of the novel, and in my opinion, Findley just reinforces the general consensus that the army induces homosexuality which I find quite shocking.
After the rape, he cleans himself up and continues on his journey where he meets one of his young recruits, Officer Poole, on his way to continue as a senior rank. They both greet each other, however, Ross concludes that he "wished with all his heart that men could embrace. But he knew now they couldn't. Mustn't." (195) Men had a duty to live by, a code to enforce and this is what the military was. Friendship could not exist on a professional level.
Also, he burns the last picture of Rowena that he had but not in an act of anger, but rather in an act of charity once he is deported to go back to Canada after finishing his mission. I suppose he's letting go of the past to start a new future. (195) It is important to note that photographs and other medias are of importance in this novel because Findley uses these mediums as a method to record the past. As we know, having knowledge to the past enlightens the protagonist to understand a present predicament of some sort and this type of general idea can be reflected in Song of Solomon, where oral recall (the idea of myths and folklore and to a certain extent gossip) allows for enlightenment and freedom. I believe it was Milkman who underwent this transformation for once he understood his roots he was able to fly, fly away, fly home like a sugar daddy? I'm joking. But you get the idea. Enlightenment is a big deal in the literary world. To understand your roots is one thing, but to take that and change it to what you want to with your life is a whole other initiative that must be done by the individual.
In 'The Wars', the use of photos and other mediums allow for the reader to understand the present predicament that Robert Ross faced (WW1) that still resonates with humans today and this is where the difference lies. For example, the Second world war was a catastrophic disaster the world has ever seen; warfare of all sorts, extremism, and mass murder on a global scale were evident and the issue of who is to blame still remains a controversial issue today. The reader becomes enlightened and this is the ultimate goal of an author.
Robert survives a bomb attack (197)
Pages 201 to 203 truly reflects Ross' passion for the freedom of animals, which undoubtedly reflects Findley's concerns for animal rights. He disobeys a captain's command to let a band of horses die in a barnyard, fearing that if they escape the Germans will be able to use them to their advantage. Ross and another officer named Devlin go off to free the horses. Devlin gets shot by the captain, named Leather. Robert frees these horses, but then three bombshell comes out of nowhere and kills all the horses where the bomb lands, leaving Robert to be the sole survivor. Robert has a showdown with Leather where he shoots him right between the eyes. Robert has killed for the very first time, shocking! We see that Robert will stop at nothing to enforce the values he cherishes and those would be his fellow animals. However he goes on a rampage and kills some animals that are still alive, and "It took him half-an-hour to kill the mules and horses." (203) This is very strange bipolar behaviour.
Pages 204 to 205 reflect the complete mental breakdown of Mrs. Ross. Robert is declared missing in action and this truly brings sadness to not only the parents but the reader as well, for the ending line before this entry was, "He tore the lapels from his uniform and left the battlefield" (203) It was as if he was going to commit suicide or something. However, Robert is not dead yet, as the next entry indicates. It is important to note that the 16 of June is constantly referred to. According to Wikipedia, not much happens on June 16th but the battle of Somme does happen on the first of July http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1916
Narrative Structure is circular in this chapter. The passage on page 207 reflects the prologue. It appears that right before, Robert's camp/battalion has been bombed and Robert appears to be the sole survivor! It makes sense now, tada!
Robert eventually dies of his burn wounds and is seen happily holding hands and smiling with Juliet D'Orsey, the only lady who's been with Robert and supported him throughout his journey. Mr. Ross is the only family member to attend his funeral.
"The spaces between the perceiver and the thing perceived can...be closed with a shout of recognition. One form of a shout is a shot. Nothing so completely verifies our perception of a thing as our killing of it. (218)
Chapter 4 Recap - The reader is introduced to radio transcripts/interviews by Juliet D'Orsey, the sister of Barbara D'Orsey. Juliet has intimate moments with Robert Ross and loves him so very dearly. Love and acceptance is a universal theme that obviously plays itself throughout the novel.
There are several intriguing plot twists that happen in the last chapter of this novel.
First of all, Robert Ross becomes a victim of rape. It is so tragic and the event is described in such detail that the reader cringes for Ross loses a sort of innocence as he is 'dirtied' up by possibly his fellow soldiers. It happens from pages 190 to 193.
"Someone struck him in the face. Robert began to pass out. He could feel himself being lifted into the air again and turned around and made to lie on his face with one man still underneath him and now with another on top. All he could feel was the shape of the man who entered him and the terrible strength of the force with which it was done. His assailants, who he'd thought were crazies, had been his fellow soldiers. Maybe even his brother officers. He'd never know. He never saw their faces.
The idea of homosexuality is brought up again near the end of the novel, and in my opinion, Findley just reinforces the general consensus that the army induces homosexuality which I find quite shocking.
After the rape, he cleans himself up and continues on his journey where he meets one of his young recruits, Officer Poole, on his way to continue as a senior rank. They both greet each other, however, Ross concludes that he "wished with all his heart that men could embrace. But he knew now they couldn't. Mustn't." (195) Men had a duty to live by, a code to enforce and this is what the military was. Friendship could not exist on a professional level.
Also, he burns the last picture of Rowena that he had but not in an act of anger, but rather in an act of charity once he is deported to go back to Canada after finishing his mission. I suppose he's letting go of the past to start a new future. (195) It is important to note that photographs and other medias are of importance in this novel because Findley uses these mediums as a method to record the past. As we know, having knowledge to the past enlightens the protagonist to understand a present predicament of some sort and this type of general idea can be reflected in Song of Solomon, where oral recall (the idea of myths and folklore and to a certain extent gossip) allows for enlightenment and freedom. I believe it was Milkman who underwent this transformation for once he understood his roots he was able to fly, fly away, fly home like a sugar daddy? I'm joking. But you get the idea. Enlightenment is a big deal in the literary world. To understand your roots is one thing, but to take that and change it to what you want to with your life is a whole other initiative that must be done by the individual.
In 'The Wars', the use of photos and other mediums allow for the reader to understand the present predicament that Robert Ross faced (WW1) that still resonates with humans today and this is where the difference lies. For example, the Second world war was a catastrophic disaster the world has ever seen; warfare of all sorts, extremism, and mass murder on a global scale were evident and the issue of who is to blame still remains a controversial issue today. The reader becomes enlightened and this is the ultimate goal of an author.
Robert survives a bomb attack (197)
Pages 201 to 203 truly reflects Ross' passion for the freedom of animals, which undoubtedly reflects Findley's concerns for animal rights. He disobeys a captain's command to let a band of horses die in a barnyard, fearing that if they escape the Germans will be able to use them to their advantage. Ross and another officer named Devlin go off to free the horses. Devlin gets shot by the captain, named Leather. Robert frees these horses, but then three bombshell comes out of nowhere and kills all the horses where the bomb lands, leaving Robert to be the sole survivor. Robert has a showdown with Leather where he shoots him right between the eyes. Robert has killed for the very first time, shocking! We see that Robert will stop at nothing to enforce the values he cherishes and those would be his fellow animals. However he goes on a rampage and kills some animals that are still alive, and "It took him half-an-hour to kill the mules and horses." (203) This is very strange bipolar behaviour.
Pages 204 to 205 reflect the complete mental breakdown of Mrs. Ross. Robert is declared missing in action and this truly brings sadness to not only the parents but the reader as well, for the ending line before this entry was, "He tore the lapels from his uniform and left the battlefield" (203) It was as if he was going to commit suicide or something. However, Robert is not dead yet, as the next entry indicates. It is important to note that the 16 of June is constantly referred to. According to Wikipedia, not much happens on June 16th but the battle of Somme does happen on the first of July http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1916
Narrative Structure is circular in this chapter. The passage on page 207 reflects the prologue. It appears that right before, Robert's camp/battalion has been bombed and Robert appears to be the sole survivor! It makes sense now, tada!
Robert eventually dies of his burn wounds and is seen happily holding hands and smiling with Juliet D'Orsey, the only lady who's been with Robert and supported him throughout his journey. Mr. Ross is the only family member to attend his funeral.
"The spaces between the perceiver and the thing perceived can...be closed with a shout of recognition. One form of a shout is a shot. Nothing so completely verifies our perception of a thing as our killing of it. (218)
Friday 17 February 2012
The Wars - Chapter Three Summary
The chapter begins with a detailed description of Robert's dugout being ruffled up by a mine detonation. Poole, who is one of the recruits in the order of Ross is deemed dead, however, he comes back into the dugout after stepping out to urinate. Strange.
The chapter is divided into logs entered with a specific time entry. Interesting approach.
Here are tad bits and pieces of the chapter.
"Robert and the others had to press forward. That was the rule. No one went back - even for a dying comrade. Only someone wounded could stay with another wounded man. Here no one spoke. The dead all lay with their faces in the mud - or turned to the walls of the trench. This was the only way they could be told apart from the wounded. All were a uniform shay of grey. Even their blood had lost its colour." (131)
Robert is seen giving command to his recruits on pages 137 to . It's surprising that the novel reveals the disorganized army for some of his recruits were not issued gas masks or handkerchiefs even. Robert uses profane language, and its really funny. A gas attack is ensuing and the recruits have their torn shirts as make up handkerchiefs to avoid the gas. However, Robert goes like, "Piss on them, PISS ON THEM!" to avoid the effects of the chlorine.
Interesting, but true. "You have to obey a man with a gun - mad or sane" (139).
This next part is awkward, but its sad.
"He nodded at the men. Then he knelt and began to fumble with his flies. Here was the terror. Bates [one of the recruits] was so afraid that he collapsed backward and sat like a child in the sand and dug in his underwear for his penis. It had shrunk in fear!" (139).
It continues, "Bates was certain he would defecate. His bowels had turned to water. He fell on his side. At last his fingers took hold [of his penis]. He closed his eyes. He prayed: dear Jesus, let me piss. But he couldn't. Neither could one of the other men and this other man began to weep, till Robert shouted at him: Damn you! Damn you! Give it to me! and he ripped the shirttail away from the man and urinated on it himself" (140)
Robert is taking command, giving instructions to put the handkerchief over the face to prevent them from inhaling the gas. The reader sees the true terror of the war, who in their right mind would believe they would have to do this act in one point of their lives to safe themselves?!
It continues, "Finally, Bates let go. His muscles gave away like bits of yarn and he fouled himself as he peed. How could it matter? They were all going to die. He flattened the wettened tail of his shirt across his face and rolled to his stomach, pressing his face in the mud" (140).
They survive the ordeal, knowing that the ammonia in urine could turn the chlorine gas into harmless crystals that could not be inhaled. Smart.
However, a German spots them and fearing a shootout, Robert puts his hand up in peace. The German lets them all go away. This reflects a general kindness to remove the preconceptions that all Germans were evil. However, the relief is shortlived as a bomb from above is dropped and kills the German and all the other recruits except Bates and Robert. Everything is green. Chlorine.
Liquid warfare is introduced. Seriously? Flame throwers to be exact. Page 148 - very gruesome deaths.
A captain by the name of Rodwell commits suicide because he could not bear the madness some of the men did in another camp. They killed animals for fun and so, Rodwell committed suicide, revealing the issue of animal rights expressed by Findley. 150
Mrs. Ross is undergoing emotional problems. A look into the relationship between Mr. Ross and Mrs. Ross is given on pgs 153-154.
"The part about marriage she mistrusted most was the part about being loved. The fact of being loved was difficult: almost intolerable. Being loved was letting others feed from your resources - all you had of life was put in jeopardy" (153)
Plot and dialogue driven. Chapters 3 and 2 must be read in order to completely understand the holes Findley sets out for the reader.
Till next time,
Alexander Truong.
The chapter is divided into logs entered with a specific time entry. Interesting approach.
Here are tad bits and pieces of the chapter.
"Robert and the others had to press forward. That was the rule. No one went back - even for a dying comrade. Only someone wounded could stay with another wounded man. Here no one spoke. The dead all lay with their faces in the mud - or turned to the walls of the trench. This was the only way they could be told apart from the wounded. All were a uniform shay of grey. Even their blood had lost its colour." (131)
Robert is seen giving command to his recruits on pages 137 to . It's surprising that the novel reveals the disorganized army for some of his recruits were not issued gas masks or handkerchiefs even. Robert uses profane language, and its really funny. A gas attack is ensuing and the recruits have their torn shirts as make up handkerchiefs to avoid the gas. However, Robert goes like, "Piss on them, PISS ON THEM!" to avoid the effects of the chlorine.
Interesting, but true. "You have to obey a man with a gun - mad or sane" (139).
This next part is awkward, but its sad.
"He nodded at the men. Then he knelt and began to fumble with his flies. Here was the terror. Bates [one of the recruits] was so afraid that he collapsed backward and sat like a child in the sand and dug in his underwear for his penis. It had shrunk in fear!" (139).
It continues, "Bates was certain he would defecate. His bowels had turned to water. He fell on his side. At last his fingers took hold [of his penis]. He closed his eyes. He prayed: dear Jesus, let me piss. But he couldn't. Neither could one of the other men and this other man began to weep, till Robert shouted at him: Damn you! Damn you! Give it to me! and he ripped the shirttail away from the man and urinated on it himself" (140)
Robert is taking command, giving instructions to put the handkerchief over the face to prevent them from inhaling the gas. The reader sees the true terror of the war, who in their right mind would believe they would have to do this act in one point of their lives to safe themselves?!
It continues, "Finally, Bates let go. His muscles gave away like bits of yarn and he fouled himself as he peed. How could it matter? They were all going to die. He flattened the wettened tail of his shirt across his face and rolled to his stomach, pressing his face in the mud" (140).
They survive the ordeal, knowing that the ammonia in urine could turn the chlorine gas into harmless crystals that could not be inhaled. Smart.
However, a German spots them and fearing a shootout, Robert puts his hand up in peace. The German lets them all go away. This reflects a general kindness to remove the preconceptions that all Germans were evil. However, the relief is shortlived as a bomb from above is dropped and kills the German and all the other recruits except Bates and Robert. Everything is green. Chlorine.
Liquid warfare is introduced. Seriously? Flame throwers to be exact. Page 148 - very gruesome deaths.
A captain by the name of Rodwell commits suicide because he could not bear the madness some of the men did in another camp. They killed animals for fun and so, Rodwell committed suicide, revealing the issue of animal rights expressed by Findley. 150
Mrs. Ross is undergoing emotional problems. A look into the relationship between Mr. Ross and Mrs. Ross is given on pgs 153-154.
"The part about marriage she mistrusted most was the part about being loved. The fact of being loved was difficult: almost intolerable. Being loved was letting others feed from your resources - all you had of life was put in jeopardy" (153)
Plot and dialogue driven. Chapters 3 and 2 must be read in order to completely understand the holes Findley sets out for the reader.
Till next time,
Alexander Truong.
The Wars - Chapter Two Summary
Motifs - death, glory, and freedom
Narrative Point of View - switches halfway, focuses on another female named Juliet D'Orsey. The narrator talks about the intimate relationships between Ross, Harris, Taffler and Barbara.
Tone - very instructional; Robert did this. He was a part of this. He longed for this. You get the idea.
Impression - Robert has grown maturely in the way he deals with loss and death in general. Considering that he is only 19, the reader can see what the effects of the war has on him.
Chapter Two, which starts off on page 75 begins with a plot detail that is historically accurate for their are references to geographical locations, dates, and warfare, such as the deadly chlorine gas which were "burning in the mud" (87). Perhaps what stood out the most so far is that Robert has his first near death experience. A death by drowning in mud. It's from pg 86-87 and it's quite gut-wrenching. He survives, obviously because if not then the story would abruptly come to an end. The motif of mud itself can be expected in this chapter, the first detailed reference to mud is on pg 76. Mud, in my opinion, has a mixed definition. The image of mud itself is harmless, but then it's frightening how it could actually kill you in a similar manner to quicksand. The novel references hundreds of death due to the sinking of mud.
 | |||
| The face of a silent, "muddled" killer. |
"Do you think we could walk a little faster? said Levitt. 'No,' said Robert. 'That's the quickest way to get shot. Wait a minute,' he said. 'Watch this.' Robert stopped walking and turned and waved at the German lines. Nothing happened. He waved again. Still nothing. He called out : 'Hallo there!' Still nothing. 'Now,' he said. 'Watch this'. He ran. At once there was a shot." (93) That's very interesting and good to know.
"We're all strange, Robert thought. Everyone is strange in a war I guess. Ordinary is a myth." (101)
"Robert rolled over. He wanted desperately to sleep but his eyes wouldn't close. Sleep is dangerous" (101)
"All he [Robert] wanted was a dream. Escape. But nobody dreams on a battlefield. There isn't any sleep that long. Dreams and distances are the same" (102)
A new narrative point of view is given by Lady Juliet D'Orsey, the sister of Barbara D'Orsey on page 108.
Barbara, according to her sister was a tomboy who was "possessive" to say the least. They had a brother named Clive who was a homosexual and Barbara never got around that fact and always pestered his boyfriends.
Harris is one of Robert's best friend of which he had met during the war. Juliet says in an interview transcript, "You know - I'm guessing at this- but I think Robert was in love with Harris. Somewhat the same way Jamie had been in love with Clive. It may be pedestrian to say so - but the truth is often pedestrian and I think the fact is that extremely physical men like Robert and Jamie and Taffler are often extremely sensitive men as well. They're more apt to be maudlin and sentimental. "Love has no many ways of expressing itself outside of the physical. I certainly don;t want to paint a picture of a lot of poets and athletes lusting after one another's bodies! But love - yes. Robert, though he never said so, loved Harris".
Thoroughly introduces the idea of homosexuality and its presence in men from all backgrounds - poets to football players.
Harris dies, saying Thank you to Robert as his final words for standing with him all the way through his injuries in the hospital through his visits and such. Robert is shocked to find him cremated, and takes his funeral to the sea, where Harris loved to focus on life and its beauty. The ceremony is on page 119. Again, the motif of the sea can be seen here again.
Not much to say about this chapter, very plot and dialogue driven.
Till next time,
Alexander Truong.
Tuesday 14 February 2012
The Wars - A Pivotal Point in the Novel [Entry Five]
 |
| A 0.455 Magnum Revolver |
 |
| A gun and a horse...this can't be good. |
What would happen, if at one point in your life, you were forced to do something you would totally regret?
"Robert had always loved the sea" (57)
This is a statement the novel makes right before Robert sets off on his journey to fight for his glorious country. I can't help but feel this is very similar to that said by Ryuji in the Sailor Who Fell From Grace with The Sea by Yukio Mishima, where the sea symbolized freedom and the concept of endlessness and eternity, maybe even sadness to a certain extent. A pivotal point occurs though in the novel which I found to be shocking and this is when he is forced to shoot a horse to death as its leg is broken and cannot continue to serve in the war effort. It happens on page 68. Imagine this on a rocking ship where manure and flies are everywhere and the thought of doing this deed in the dark with horses around you that are deathly afraid of loud noises. It's just pleasant, isn't it? I found this point in the novel to be very intriguing because it reflects that Robert Ross, despite his attachment to animals, decides to kill the horse not only because it was an action that needed to be done, but because it was part of his duty to do so. Several officers were around him and he needed to represent his title as a Second Lieutenant well and so doing this seemed for him to be the best thing to do.
The novel states, "Robert forced his eyes to open: aimed - and fired again. This time the horse was hit on the withers. Robert sank to his knees. He could hear himself breathing. He held the gun in both hands. He pressed it hard behind the horse's ear and swore at the horse: 'God damn it, damn it, damn it -stop'. His knees where wet and he drew himself into a ball and pushed with all his strength. He began to squeeze the trigger and he squeezed it again and again and again - so many times that when the Sergeant - Major pulled him away the gun went right on clicking in his hands" (68)
The following excerpt not only shows Robert's struggle to kill the horse, but reflects his inexperience with yielding a gun and properly using it. It's at this point that titles don't mean anything if there is no experience to support it. It's at this point which I believe his morals and innocence will deteriorate. Imagine this. His hesitation can be represented as a line. It's difficult to cross this line at first, but once he crosses it, no longer will guilt hold him back. Passing this line will be easy every time because the first hesitation is what was preventing him from doing so. I'm very dissapointed for I believe that Robert is risking everything for the sake of this war, including his morals. But then again, many of real life soldiers have sacrificed much more.
The reader is left wondering, will he encounter many more rite of passages? What impact and significance will it have on himself and to those around him?
Till next time,
Alexander Truong.
The Wars - Family Love [Entry Four]
As I continue to read the wars, I realize that there is a shift to a focus on the parents of Robert Ross and how they actually do sincerely care for their son who is enlisted to fight in the war. The mother, although she seems like a horrible one in the beginning of the novel, is actually rather loving and has her reasons to become moody. The father, who seems like he has no initiative in life, does reveal a perseverance to follow through with his actions that will be discussed in the following post. All in all, it reflects a character development.
Mrs. Ross becomes inquiring, questioning what it means to live life I suppose. The novel states states, "I was afraid I was going to scream,' she said. She gestured back at the church with its sermon in progress. 'I do not understand. I don't. I won't. I can't. Why is this happening to us, Davenport? What does it mean - to kill your children? kill them and then...go in there and sing about it! What does that mean?' She wept - but angrily." (54)
From pages 54 to 56, an interaction with a child reflects Mrs. Ross' general kindness. The child may be thought of as a figure for innocence and hope, and hence inspires Mrs. Ross that everything is going to be alright.
In addition, the reader becomes aware of the fact that Mrs. Ross' brother died at a young age and so she places her son Robert in his shoes and fears for his death. This is evident when the novel states, "All she wanted to do was sit in the corner of the room and watch the door for Robert's return" (72). It's quite sad. Her brother's name was Monty Miles and had been killed while walking home. A trolley left the train tracks and struck him down.
Mr. Ross on the other hand, while quietly spoken is revealed to have a determination on what he sets out to do. As you may have known, Robert Ross makes a big deal out of having a 0.455 automatic hand revolver and so his father goes out of his way to send this. The novel states, "He had brought Robert down a hamper of food as well as the Cold revolver in its wooden box" and that he wanted to specifically pass "these gifts from hand to hand" (73). He was not going to let anything stop him for he was "determined, nonetheless that he should go - even if he had to go alone" (73). What a loving father.
The reader questions whether or not Robert will receive the love with authenticity? Will it be reciprocal? One can only hope.
If this event and transition could be put into a song, it would be "Never too late" by Three Days Grace. Read the passage from pgs 54-56. Itll make your heart melt.
Till next time,
Alexander Truong.
Mrs. Ross becomes inquiring, questioning what it means to live life I suppose. The novel states states, "I was afraid I was going to scream,' she said. She gestured back at the church with its sermon in progress. 'I do not understand. I don't. I won't. I can't. Why is this happening to us, Davenport? What does it mean - to kill your children? kill them and then...go in there and sing about it! What does that mean?' She wept - but angrily." (54)
From pages 54 to 56, an interaction with a child reflects Mrs. Ross' general kindness. The child may be thought of as a figure for innocence and hope, and hence inspires Mrs. Ross that everything is going to be alright.
In addition, the reader becomes aware of the fact that Mrs. Ross' brother died at a young age and so she places her son Robert in his shoes and fears for his death. This is evident when the novel states, "All she wanted to do was sit in the corner of the room and watch the door for Robert's return" (72). It's quite sad. Her brother's name was Monty Miles and had been killed while walking home. A trolley left the train tracks and struck him down.
Mr. Ross on the other hand, while quietly spoken is revealed to have a determination on what he sets out to do. As you may have known, Robert Ross makes a big deal out of having a 0.455 automatic hand revolver and so his father goes out of his way to send this. The novel states, "He had brought Robert down a hamper of food as well as the Cold revolver in its wooden box" and that he wanted to specifically pass "these gifts from hand to hand" (73). He was not going to let anything stop him for he was "determined, nonetheless that he should go - even if he had to go alone" (73). What a loving father.
The reader questions whether or not Robert will receive the love with authenticity? Will it be reciprocal? One can only hope.
If this event and transition could be put into a song, it would be "Never too late" by Three Days Grace. Read the passage from pgs 54-56. Itll make your heart melt.
Till next time,
Alexander Truong.
The Wars - Glory [Entry Three]
"He was now a fully commissioned officer and ripe for the wars. On 18 December, 1915 the 39th Battery, C.E.F - which Robert had joined in Kingston - was embarked on the S.S Massanabie in St John Harbour. Robert even smoked a cigarette. He was nineteen years old" (46)
What I find surprising is the historical accuracy Findley incorporates into his work. There still lies a military training base camp in Kingston, Ontario where young officers train to enlist in the Canadian army. It's called the RMC - the Royal Military College of Canada. I should know this haha, I was planning on joining.
The main theme from this idea of glory found in titles and medals is essentially, one must consider, what makes a man, a man? Is it anatomically and genetically determined? Is someone a man for their brute strength? Or perhaps being loyal and staying true to your morals leaves you an honoured man. What happens if you have brute strength and you are loyal as well? (No sexual answers!) This is the main question to consider for Robert Ross may become the epitome of manliness or just become an outright failure like that of Okonkwo in Things Fall Apart.
In addition, consider the ethical implications during this time frame. There were very gender-specific roles and it's important to note that there is a shift from shielding away from publicity, "In the snapshots everyone at first seems timid - lost - irresolute. Boys and men stand squinting at the camera. Women turn away suspicious. They still maintain a public reticence" to wanting to be publicized, as the general public cheer in gathering events, supporting war, and even handing out chocolate to soldiers leaving on trains.
Consider this: What's in a name?
Till next time,
Alexander Truong.
Monday 13 February 2012
The Wars - The Author behind the post-modern novel [Entry Two]
 |
| He seems like a nice guy. |
So what's the hype? Who exactly is Timothy Findley? He was born in Toronto, Ontario on Oct. 30th 1930 and died on June 21st 2002. He had several successes in theatre and dance before moving on to writing. His novel The Wars was acclaimed in 1977. In 1985, he was even appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada (look out! someone's successful ;) ). His works were influenced by mental illnesses, sexuality, gender, and Jungian psychology (Carl Jung's works on the importance of memories and dreams). His characters often carried dark personal secrets, and were often conflicted — sometimes to the point of psychosis — by these burdens. Very interesting, I wonder what this "newfound" information foreshadows in The Wars.
As I read The Wars, I become more wary of the way Timothy Findley writes and how he uses several methods of capturing the attention of his readers even though the plot seems very fragmented. The life of Robert Ross, the soldier who you, the reader investigates the life of is seen through several entries found in the form of archives. This type of writing style is referred to as an "episodic narrative". The plot depends on several different "episodes" in order for the reader to connect all the missing pieces to form the big picture at the end. Such a style is exactly like that of a movie (sadly there is none)! It has holes, and there is no flow like you would expect a novel to have. But mind you Findley chooses to do this and trust me, it definitely makes a statement.
Till next time,
Alexander Truong.
Sunday 12 February 2012
The Wars - A Mysterious Stranger [Entry One]
For this blog, I comment on novels in a running commentary style. Forgive me if there seems to be a missing link between thoughts, but that's the way I run. So, enjoy my first post on the novel, "The Wars".
These are two quotes in the novel that I found to be very attractive, and they will be my hooks for today.
"Everyone wants to know what people look like. Somehow it seems to say so much about a person's possibilities..." (9)
"People can only be found in what they do..."
The Wars by Timothy Findley is a novel that investigates the life of Robert Ross. What caught my eye about this novel immediately is its narrative point of view. Never in my academic life have I come across a novel that dealt with a second person point of view. For example, this is exemplified in an entry that begins like, "You begin at the archives with photographs" . It reflects a sort of game for the reader whose goal is to investigate and the discover the true life of Robert Ross, who in the first few pages of the novel seems to be a soldier from World War I. The novel is also strange for its plot and dialogue are driven by "entries" found by the main character looking through archives. You the reader also joins the character in this journey. Each new twist and addition to the plot is indicated by the entry number, so the novel starts at like 1, 2, 3... and so forth. It's strange but it works; a puzzle if you will.
There are also mentions of iconic symbols that can be directly or indirectly related to the war. What's a
It gives indication to the background of Robert Ross.
"He wears a checkered cap and dark blue suit. He watches with a dubious expression; half-admiring - half reluctant to admire. He's old enough to go to war. He hasnt gone" (Entry 3) He has a sister named Rowena who is diagnosed with a condition whose adjective is hydrocephalic - to have water in the brain. He becomes her guardian, probably metaphorically. Robert is a "fine catch for any girl. He was a scholar and an athlete. Besides - he had money" (8). The parents seem to be detached from their children. Mrs. Ross especially, seems to be like a bitch for telling Robert he can go to hell because he wants to be a soldier hence go to war. Like wth? She also orders him to kill the rabbits which he owned in partnership with Rowena, who passes away at the age of 25 years old (23). The mother also smokes, which I find unconventional given the time frame around WWI. Has she been a good mother? tsk tsk.
Marian Turner - a nurse in WWI who remembers Robert when she took care of him in the Bois de Madeleine hospital - a first hand account given in the form of a radio transcription.
"The human body - well - it's like the mind I guess; terribly impressive till you put it in jeopardy" (10) and shows a hint of her awareness to politics, "You have to be awfully careful how you define extraordinary" What actions define a hero? Who is the hero? The reader is intrigued about what Ross has done that gives him all this attention, especially if the novel revolves around him. "Many men have died like Robert Ross, obscured by violence". "Ross was consumed by fire" (3).
"No one smiles. Life is dangerous" (4)
When Robert Ross goes to a whorehouse, the novel reflects the conventions at the time in a strange way. It shows that prostitution must have been at a high or something. It shows a slow but sure deterioration in his innocence. It also brings up the issue of homosexuality, as Ross is shocked to see his idol, Taffler, having sex with a man.
The diction is quite simple, formal. Tone; instructional as evident through the entry format, perhaps imaginative in some ways. Images - vary from freedom, to despair. Central idea - investigating the journey of the hero, "Robert Ross". The title, "The Wars" - indicates not only the possibilities of the world wars, but maybe its a metaphor for internal struggles and insecurities as well?
The reader is left wondering, will Ross undergo shell shock? What discoveries will the reader find out about?
Till next time,
Alexander Truong.
These are two quotes in the novel that I found to be very attractive, and they will be my hooks for today.
"Everyone wants to know what people look like. Somehow it seems to say so much about a person's possibilities..." (9)
"People can only be found in what they do..."
The Wars by Timothy Findley is a novel that investigates the life of Robert Ross. What caught my eye about this novel immediately is its narrative point of view. Never in my academic life have I come across a novel that dealt with a second person point of view. For example, this is exemplified in an entry that begins like, "You begin at the archives with photographs" . It reflects a sort of game for the reader whose goal is to investigate and the discover the true life of Robert Ross, who in the first few pages of the novel seems to be a soldier from World War I. The novel is also strange for its plot and dialogue are driven by "entries" found by the main character looking through archives. You the reader also joins the character in this journey. Each new twist and addition to the plot is indicated by the entry number, so the novel starts at like 1, 2, 3... and so forth. It's strange but it works; a puzzle if you will.
There are also mentions of iconic symbols that can be directly or indirectly related to the war. What's a
- Magdalene Wood
- the S.S Massanable
- Barbara D'Orsey
- S.S Minnetonka
It gives indication to the background of Robert Ross.
"He wears a checkered cap and dark blue suit. He watches with a dubious expression; half-admiring - half reluctant to admire. He's old enough to go to war. He hasnt gone" (Entry 3) He has a sister named Rowena who is diagnosed with a condition whose adjective is hydrocephalic - to have water in the brain. He becomes her guardian, probably metaphorically. Robert is a "fine catch for any girl. He was a scholar and an athlete. Besides - he had money" (8). The parents seem to be detached from their children. Mrs. Ross especially, seems to be like a bitch for telling Robert he can go to hell because he wants to be a soldier hence go to war. Like wth? She also orders him to kill the rabbits which he owned in partnership with Rowena, who passes away at the age of 25 years old (23). The mother also smokes, which I find unconventional given the time frame around WWI. Has she been a good mother? tsk tsk.
Marian Turner - a nurse in WWI who remembers Robert when she took care of him in the Bois de Madeleine hospital - a first hand account given in the form of a radio transcription.
"The human body - well - it's like the mind I guess; terribly impressive till you put it in jeopardy" (10) and shows a hint of her awareness to politics, "You have to be awfully careful how you define extraordinary" What actions define a hero? Who is the hero? The reader is intrigued about what Ross has done that gives him all this attention, especially if the novel revolves around him. "Many men have died like Robert Ross, obscured by violence". "Ross was consumed by fire" (3).
"No one smiles. Life is dangerous" (4)
When Robert Ross goes to a whorehouse, the novel reflects the conventions at the time in a strange way. It shows that prostitution must have been at a high or something. It shows a slow but sure deterioration in his innocence. It also brings up the issue of homosexuality, as Ross is shocked to see his idol, Taffler, having sex with a man.
The diction is quite simple, formal. Tone; instructional as evident through the entry format, perhaps imaginative in some ways. Images - vary from freedom, to despair. Central idea - investigating the journey of the hero, "Robert Ross". The title, "The Wars" - indicates not only the possibilities of the world wars, but maybe its a metaphor for internal struggles and insecurities as well?
The reader is left wondering, will Ross undergo shell shock? What discoveries will the reader find out about?
Till next time,
Alexander Truong.
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