Some of the literary devices that I noticed throughout my passage, the third one, are antithesis and the tone of the passage. Throughout the entirety of the passage, the narrator speaks of how he is going to be telling the life story of the girl from the North-east. When the narrator explains how the tone of the story is going to be, the narrator seems to have an indifferent tone. He says things like, “morbid or pitiless,” and “I, too, feel no pity for my main character,” and “I want my story to be cold and impartial,” and “I reserve the right to be devastatingly cold”. When he says this, it seems as if he does not care about the sad life story of the girl from the North-east. Later on in the passage, the narrator starts talking about how only a man could write this life story because a woman would weep her heart out. When reading this, the reader can formulate a conclusion that maybe the narrator has an indifferent tone so that he does not feel anything when writing because of how devastating this life story is. Also, the narrator describes how he prays and he empties his soul. After this he says, “But emptiness, too, has its value and somehow resembles abundance”. My group and I thought that this meant that the narrator prays to feel empty and has an indifferent tone because he wants to feel emotionless when writing this life story; he is trying to prepare himself for what he has to do. This passage has a depressing tone to it because of how the narrator describes this pain. My group and I thought that this passage was written to inform the reader of how the narrator is coping with this life story he has to write and some background information on what the book is going to be about.
Our passage for the Close Reading Discussion is #1, “Dedication by the Author”. After analyzing, the passage serves as a small glimpse of the overall structure and context of the novel. Lispector writes, “Most of all I dedicate it to the yesterdays of today and to today, to the transparent veil of Debussy, to Marlos Nobre, to Prokofiev, to Carl Orff and Schoenberg, to the twelve-tone composers…” (Lispector xiii). The twelve-tone technique refers to a method using all of the twelve tones on the scale equally without much emphasis on one note. The result of this type of music has no rhythm and sounds poorly put together. This is similar to the style of writing Lispector uses throughout the novel when the narrator jumps from one topic to another with no actual structure. The narrator says, “...this story has no technique, nor style, it lives from hand to mouth.” (28) which is acknowledging the use of stream of consciousness where the writer writes exactly what is going through his head. It can also be compared to Macabea’s life since she mostly wanders and live aimlessly in the book. A theme that arises in The Hour of the Star is questioning existence and looking for answers. The narrator writes, “Is there another answer in the world? If anyone knows a better one speak up and tell me, I’ve been waiting fo ryears.” (18). This relates to our passage since Lispector mentions the symbol of atoms and how one cannot see it but it exists. The only thing one can do is to accept that it is real rather than not believe. She also says, “It’s an unfinished book because it’s still waiting for an answer.” (xiv) which emphasizes the ongoing quest for “answers” and waiting for it to arrive.
The section I read for the close reading assignment was the sixth section. In this section, the narrator is still introducing himself and the story he is about to tell. He focuses particularly on his writing style and the way that this story changes it in this section. One of the main things I noticed in this section was heavy use of personification, metaphors and similes. These metaphors are usually used to make the writing and the situations Rodrigo presents seem more fantastic or unrealistic than they actually are. For example on page 17, Lispector writes, “so called sorrow is borne with the dignity of an aristocrat”. Despite the fact that sorrow is a fairly mundane and normal emotion, Rodrigo exaggerates reality by claiming that it is carried with as much dignity as an aristocrat. These metaphors serve to make the tone more detached from reality because of the way that these metaphors distort reality. This detached tone is typical of Rodrigo throughout the book and is one of the ways that Lispector dehumanizes the people in the story. The tone of this section also connected with the motif of reality presented in the second paragraph.. Rodrigo discusses the idea that perhaps he is unable to write about reality, “since reality exceeds me”. This implies that he is able to write about fiction easier than about reality. I believe that the author included this quote to illuminate that reality is sometimes harder to understand than fiction. This fits with the heavy use of metaphors in the passage because it shows that Rodrigo is trying to compare the real to the fictitious to understand it.
The passage that I investigated was passage #3. In this passage, I noticed lots of background information about the narrator and antithesis, which stands out in the passage. The passage reads, “But emptiness, too, has its value and somehow resembles abundance” (Lispector, 14). This contradicts itself as the narrator is saying that having nothing is equivalent to having a lot. Discussed in our group was also the idea that the emptiness is a symbol for the narrator’s emotional state of being. He says in the previous lines, “I am warming up before making a start, rubbing my hands together to summon up my courage” (14). He says that his story is going to be very depressing, talking about a girl living in Rio who has no use. The narrator calls them “superfluous” and says, “nobody cares a damn about their existence” (14). Because this story is going to be so sad with the “worthless” girls, the narrator must warm himself up to begin. The emptiness he speaks of is apathy, his removal of emotions so that he may tell a story with no sympathy for the protagonist. The purpose of this passage is to introduce the tone of the story, to tell the reader that they must beware of what is coming. It’s almost as if it’s a warning sign, alerting the reader that they must not attach themselves to the character. Also, as I read this passage, I felt as if Clarice Lispector had written it through her perspective. She, too, is not one to sugarcoat things, and she must have included some of her own thoughts in this narrator that tells the story. For example, “I want my story to be cold and impartial. Unlike the reader, I reserve the right to be devastatingly cold, for this is not simply a narrative but above all primary life that breathes, breathes, breathes” (13). It’s ironic because the narrator is saying these words, but it is written by Lispector and could easily be applied to her own writing, as well.
The passage I analyzed was the fourth passage which was filled with thoughts from the narrator and a brief piece of characterization about the main character, Macabea. Mixing these two characters together creates an almost magical realistic effect where a seemingly real character can be controlled by another character at will. Sure enough in writing, as what the narrator is doing, the author essentially creates a new life and has the power to control it. This relationship between the narrator and Macabea can be seen in this passage. Bread in this passage is described turning to gold if the narrator if he adorns the word or the writing. As a result “the girl would be unable to bite into it, and consequently die of hunger” (Lispector 14). Earlier in the passage, the author explains that he wants to express himself “simply in order to capture her delicate and shadowy existence” (15). By using eloquent language as a means to entertain, the author loses focus on the delicate “craft” of the character. The bread symbolizes the characters livelihood, a piece of characterization. Using too many “succulent terms” would hide or hinder showing the true nature of the girl. Therefore she will die because her true self would no longer exist but rather a different character all the more. This is why the narrator describes his writing that it “emanates a secret meaning” because his writing, and consequently the character herself, he says “stems from me only to return to me” (14-15). The characterization of Macabea remains a mystery (obviously shown through the high level of analysis to understand the story) after being buried by simplicity and the delicate craftsmanship needed to create the narrator’s true intentions. The character of Macabea is not meant for entertainment, but rather to address Lispector's own conundrums about metaphysical or existential topics that inspired her to write the Hour of the Star. In order to do this, the main character must be delivered with a level of simplicity and mystery to separate her from other characters in the world of literature.
12. What is the significance of Rodrigo’s use of syntax (complex sentences, use of dashes/hyphens, unusual use of punctuation, like colons, etc.)? Throughout the novel, Rodrigo refers to his writing as art. He writes, “I write in bold and severe painter’s strokes.” (Lispector 9) implying that this novel is his masterpiece. His word choice “bold” and “severe” creates a mental picture of harsh and sudden. This reflects Rodrigo’s use of syntax, shown through the conventions and complex sentences, to create this work of art. The fluidity of the story can also be compared to twelve-tone music, a technique that does not sound aesthetically pleasing whatsoever. At one point he writes, “That’s because this story lacks a cantabile melody, Its rhythm is sometimes discordant.” (8) where cantabile means smooth and discordant can be defined as harsh due to lack of harmony. Acknowledging this, Rodrigo lacks the structure a normal writer would try and incorporate in his writing.
14. How are the philosophical thoughts reflected in Rodrigo’s narration? There are many instances where philosophical thoughts are reflected through Rodrigo’s narration. The use of stream of consciousness allows the reader to grasp these raw emotions and capture what the writer is really thinking right then and there. For example, the theme of questioning and seeking answers is prevalent throughout the novel. In the introduction the writer mentions, “As long as I have questions and no answers, I’ll keep on writing.” (3) and soon follows with, “Is there another answer in the world? If anyone knows a better one speak up and tell me, I’ve been waiting for years.” (18). This shows that there are many “unknowns” in the world and we can only ask and wonder what the answer may be. Also tying into the unknown, questioning existence is also found in the book. He writes, “And I want to accept my freedom without thinking what so many do, that existing is something for fools… Existing isn’t logical.” (12). This implies that existence isn’t a fact given or something that we know. It is a question rather than a statement.
16. What role does gender play in the story? Why is the narrator male? Is there cultural and/or thematic significance for the gender roles? In the novel, gender role plays an important factor in terms of seeing women as pieces of meat. The writer even says, “I know there are girls who sell their bodies, their only real possession (wtf), in exchange for a good dinner instead of a bologna sandwich. But the person I’m going to talk about scarcely has a body to sell, nobody wants her, she’s a virgin and harmless, nobody would miss her.” (5-6). Apparently in the setting where the book takes place, prostitution is a norm and a route young women take. Because of Macabea’s physical outlook, the writer is implying that no one would ever want her due to her unattractive appearance. Having a male narrator also provides a perspective on a man’s view in the society.
In my analyzation of passage one, it became very clear that one of the largest inspirations for Hour of the Star is music, and in a wider sense: creation. The author discussed topics such as atoms, the granules of all creation, of coherent and incoherent sound waves (that we call music), and pleasing and displeasing identifications of the soul’s self. One very interesting reference was the inspiration and gratitude expressed by the writer for 12-tone music. Twelve-tone music is not very pretty, very haunting and ugly in fact. In (most) regular music, music that is pleasing to our ears and hearts as human’s, there are seven tones utilized, with one (the tonic) as the “home”, where much music begins and ends. In an octave, there are 12 chromatic tones possible, and serialism (12-tone music) utilizes each of these tones equally- almost as a theological and philosophical approach to music rather than an emotional and artistic one. Because it utilizes each tone, the music lacks appealing sound, and most importantly, is characterized by its lack of a “home”. (It essentially is plunking each note on the keyboard at random and calling it a melody) Similarly, in Hour of the Star, this incoherent lostness and randomness and pure unprettiness is portrayed and expressed through the author’s ravaged story of Macabea. The story perhaps reveals more about the writer than the subject.
In my analyzation of passage one, it became very clear that one of the largest inspirations for Hour of the Star is music, and in a wider sense: creation. The author discussed topics such as atoms, the granules of all creation, of coherent and incoherent sound waves (that we call music), and pleasing and displeasing identifications of the soul’s self. One very interesting reference was the inspiration and gratitude expressed by the writer for 12-tone music. Twelve-tone music is not very pretty, very haunting and ugly in fact. In (most) regular music, music that is pleasing to our ears and hearts as human’s, there are seven tones utilized, with one (the tonic) as the “home”, where much music begins and ends. In an octave, there are 12 chromatic tones possible, and serialism (12-tone music) utilizes each of these tones equally- almost as a theological and philosophical approach to music rather than an emotional and artistic one. Because it utilizes each tone, the music lacks appealing sound, and most importantly, is characterized by its lack of a “home”. (It essentially is plunking each note on the keyboard at random and calling it a melody) Similarly, in Hour of the Star, this incoherent lostness and randomness and pure unprettiness is portrayed and expressed through the author’s ravaged story of Macabea. The story perhaps reveals more about the writer than the subject.
What is the point of Rodrigo’s introduction? It’s interesting how Clarice Lispector’s story is about another author writing a story. (Inception!) However, this author doesn’t delve right into his story, he instead begins with a stream of consciousness of random thoughts, often contradicting himself along the way. So why was this introduction included? He talks a lot about how poor Macabéa is, how terrible her life is, and brings up ideas about existence in general, as well. The narrator also says, “this lengthy preamble is intended to conceal the poverty of this story” (22). Perhaps the story is so discouraging that the narrator feels it is his duty to distract you first, so you aren’t going to feel disappointed as his real story comes.
Why do you think Macabéa “loved” Olímpico? Macabéa loved Olímpico because she truly had no knowledge of the alternative. She was so pure and naïve that she did not know much about life, and couldn’t distinguish love from admiration or any other form of emotion. She loved him because she had no experience with a man who treated her well, or with anyone who also loved her. It’s easy to attach yourself to someone when you are alone for so long, and in Macabéas case, she neither had people around her, or a luxurious life. So, in her hole of poverty and loneliness, she clings to the first man that takes interest in her and she appears to “love” him.
Is Rodrigo the protagonist in the novel? Or is it Macabéa? The protagonist in the novel is most likely Rodrigo. When you think about it, the story itself is about a writer – not about a woman in Rio. So if the story is about a writer, this character’s creation cannot be the protagonist. Although she is involved in all of the conflicts and goes through her life, she is only a side story to the main writer’s life.
What does Macabea’s death represent? How does it fit in with the overall message of the book? I believe that Macabea’s death is representative of the fact that Macabea had finally begun to ask herself who she really was. The fortune teller revealed to her for the first time that her life was actually quite terrible, something Macabea really had never considered until this point. Because of this, “she felt like weeping as she perceived the other side” (78). Rodrigo went on to note that Macabea had experienced something almost like a death sentence- because her old life of ignorant bliss had been shattered by the fortune teller, she would now have to find a way to make her life less miserable. It makes sense that Macabea dies here because earlier in the book Rodrigo says “Were she foolish enough to ask herself ‘Who am I?’, She would fall flat on her face” (15). Interestingly, right after the first time in her life she asks herself this question, she literally falls flat on her face and then dies after being hit by the Mercedes. This fits in with the theme of self knowledge that is present throughout the book. The book seems to imply that lack of self- knowledge can actually keep a person in blissful happiness, while self- knowledge itself can destroy a person. In this case, it is literally the moment of self realization in which Macabea is killed What was Lispector’s purpose in writing this book? What is the theme? This is probably the most difficult question for me personally because I see a number of themes that all come together in this book, most of them philosophical in nature. First of all, I think the novel centers largely around the plight of the poor and destitute in an often cold and unfeeling world. However, I don’t think that this is the main theme of the novel. I noticed a lot of philosophical rhetorical questions throughout the novel, such as, “am I a monster or is this what it means to be a person?”(15), and the question of identity, “Who am I?”. The rhetorical questions combined with the theme of blissful ignorance symbolized by Macabea make me wonder if the message of the novel has something to do with life and reality creating more questions than answers, and that ignorance of these questions may be easier than trying to answer them-- but could ultimately lead to disaster once they can no longer be ignored.
Was Macabea happy? Are we meant to feel sorry for her? If she is self- content, is she so pitiful after all? I believe that, by most people’s definition, Macabea was not happy. However, because Macabea’s life was so miserable, I believe that she never experienced happiness and thus did not know what it really was. Because of this, she thought of herself as a happy person because she did not really know what else to think. Right after Macabea learns of her fortune, and her current misery, Rodrigo notes “until this moment, Macabea had thought of herself as being happy” (78). The reason Lispector uses the word “thought” is to show that Macabea does not really “know” anything, especially not how miserable she is. This is what makes Macabea pitiful- she knows nothing and thus is at the mercy of anyone who reveals any truths about the world to her. However, I think Lispector leaves it up to the reader to decide whether we should feel sorry for her- Rodrigo himself notes that “Unlike the reader, I reserve the right to be devastatingly cold” (13). While Rodrigo attempts to write only with facts to ensure that he doesn't evoke pity in the audience, he leaves plenty of room for the reader to feel it if they choose
Was Macabéa happy? Are we meant to feel sorry for her? If she is self-content, is she so pitiful after all?
I think that, even though Rodrigo explains in his introduction how miserable this life story is, Macabea is still somewhat happy with her life. The reader may not recognize any signs of happy with the description of her life, but I think that Macabea had some happiness inside her. With teenagers reading this book in my generation, we have money, clothes, parents that spoil us, and many opportunities that Macabea was not able to have. With this information, I think that we come to a conclusion that we should feel sorry for her. She was not a girl that was liked or even really noticed by anyone and we think of that as being associated with a “loner”. With everything that we are able to resources to versus the life of Macabea, we feel the need to feel sorry for her because she seems lonely, doesn’t really have much friends and if she does, not very good ones, and she doesn’t have all of the resources we have nowadays. We kind of assume that Macabea is unhappy with her lifestyle and that we should feel sorry her but we don’t know for sure if she is unhappy with her life but I do think that we should feel a little pity for her. No one should have to live a life that Macabea lives.
Why do you think Macabéa “loved” Olímpico?
I think that Macabea “loved” Olimpico because he was the first person to ever show any kind of affection towards her. For most of her life, she’s been living in the shadows, not being noticed by anyone around her. Even though she may talk to her coworkers and may have some friends, they don’t really show any feelings of affection towards her which I think is what she was wanting more than anything in life; was someone to show some kind of affection to her, showing that they cared in some way. Macabea has gone most of her life not getting noticed by a man and she finally caught one’s eye. Even though Olimpico didn’t really seem to care for her while they were “dating”, he was still the first guy to take interest in Macabea, making her happy.
What is the point of Rodrigo’s introduction? I think that the point of Rodrigo’s introduction was to foreshadow what the story was going to be about. Throughout the entirety of the introduction, Rodrigo discusses a lot about how much of a miserable and sad life that the girl from the North-east lives. He mentions how he is preparing himself to tell this story because of how sad it is and that he is trying to empty his soul so to not get attached to the girl from the North-east. Also, he goes into some parts of his life and how he feels when writing the introduction and how he feels about having to write this life story. He also questions, since this life story is so sad, if there really is any happiness in the world, which I thought was interesting to think about.
The purpose of this novel is clearly expressed in the beginning parts of the book as the reader is introduce to the character Rodrigo M.S, the narrator and author of the story. Beginning with a discussion about the beginning of the world, motifs of existence are shown. The narrator speculates about the birth of the universe but says "I do not know why, but I do know that the universe never began" (Lispector 11). The theme that the universe never began prevails all throughout the book. The narrator theorizes that everything will exist and had existed in the "prehistory of prehistory" and maybe even the prehistory of that. That is why the narrator questions " How does one start at the beginning, if things happen before they actually happen" ; a question the 3 dimensional human mind has a hard time understanding. Thus, with such difficult questions to understand Lispector reveals the his purpose through the medium of seemingly insignificant people, Macabea. He believes it is his "duty to relate everything about this girl among thousands like her" to show to others and herself her existence. This story travels back and forth between the thoughts of the narrator and Macabea's story, allowing for a confusing focus for the story. But Rodrigo is the main character with the main conflict as stated earlier his questioning for existence and why some peoples' existence remains unnoticed. Macabea is simply an instrument for Rodrigo to confront the reader about the existence of people , to result " in my transfiguration into someone else and in my ultimate materialization into an object" (20). The story revolves around the narrators goal to reach out to everyone end essentially "become" them, like the " sweet tones of the flute". Lispector uses music imagery to convey the narrators desire to positively have an impact on the reader, though aware he does not exist. Addressing issues with gender roles in The Hour of the Star is not the primary purpose for the book, but holds some significance in the story. Specifically the reason why the narrator is male. This book itself appears to be an inception of the outside world. Lispector writes about Rodrigo who is writing about Macabea but in turn, Lispector is writing about Macabea's life. It is as if Lispector wants to represent herself, but in order to avoid an autobiographical or diary style, creates a brand new character to reflect her own thoughts about existence and the subject at hand. A subtle hint is presented to remind the reader of who is actually writing the book where Rodrigo explains that the book must be written by a "man for a woman would weep her heart out" (14). The reader is reminded that the actual writer of the book is a woman and therefore we can infer that Lispector was very emotional about this story. But this also establishes a traditional view of women that existed when this book was written.
“Meantime, I want to walk naked or in rags; I want to experience at least once the insipid flavor of the Host” (19) The host, in Christianity, is frequently used to refer to the communion offering at religious celebrations in many Christian denominations. In Roman Catholicism, this offering is usually a small wafer- like bread, sometimes in a circular shape. Catholics believe that this bread is the body of Jesus Christ, and that eating it allows you to gain a greater spiritual connection with God. I believe Lispector used this allusion because it shows that Rodrigo, despite not really being religious, would like to feel as though he can commune with God. It shows that Rodrigo is sort of an outsider in his society as most Brazilians will have already had many tastes of the Host. “May the Gods never decree that I should write about a leper, for then I should be covered in leprosy” (39) Here, Rodrigo alludes to leprosy. Leprosy is a fairly common topic in the Bible, mentioned over 68 times throughout the new and old testament. In the Bible, leprosy refers usually to a skin disease or deformity, and usually has the connotation of being a disease of outcasts. Therefore it is interesting that Lispector used the word here-- Rodrigo feels as though writing about a social outcast like Macabea has made him more of a social outcast himself, so he fears writing about a leper (another type of outcast) lest he become one of those as well. “They bled a black pig and seven white hens over me and tore my bloodstained clothes to shreds” (70). This quote seemed to me like an indirect reference to the death of Jesus. The quote here describes a voodoo practice used by Madame Carlota, and Gloria asks if Macabea is courageous enough to face something like that. I believe Lispector used the reference to Jesus here to show that Macabea’s trip to the psychic would lead to her death. It also makes sense because just as Jesus died and was reborn, Rodrigo implies that Macabea’s trip to the psychic had a similar resurrective effect on her. “Sin tempts me, forbidden pleasures lure me” (70). This quote seemed to me like a reference to the forbidden fruit of the Bible. In the Bible, Adam and Eve were told that they must avoid the “Forbidden Fruit” in the Garden of Eden. However, a snake convinced Eve to eat the apple, and she shared it with Eve, which was the beginning of all sin on Earth. I believe that this reference to “forbidden pleasure” signifies that Rodrigo is feeling tempted to go away from the current path of his story. He knows what path the story “must” take, but he wants to give in to the temptation of simplifying or easing Macabea’s struggle. This, however, would be a sin as alluded to in this quote. “Should God descend on earth one day there would be a great silence” (85). Here, Rodrigo makes reference to the Rapture. The Rapture, in Christianity, is the day on which God will “descend on earth” and judge the living, choosing to send them to either heaven or to hell. In the Bible, it says that this will occur “with the archangel's call and with the sound of God's trumpet” (Thessalonians 4:13-17). However, Rodrigo goes against this notion by claiming that if God ever does come down to Earth, there will only be silence. I believe he did this to claim that even if God himself came down to Earth, humans are so wrapped up in their own lives that they would barely even notice Him, let alone some poor girl from the Northeast of Brazil living a miserable life.
"Who was she asking? God? She didn't think about God, God didn't think about her. God belongs to those who manage to get him" (18).
Many religious people believe that God listens to all and gives help to all that need it. In this passage, it says that God didn’t think of her, implying that God didn’t think she was that important to think about, even though God thinks about everyone. This just shows the unimportance that Macabea’s life contains; if she can’t even catch God’s attention, who in the world would pay attention to her?
“The typist lived in a kind of limbo, hovering between heaven and hell” (36).
Limbo is basically the “edge of hell”; one does not fully enter hell, but at the same time they don’t go to heaven either. They don’t experience any punishment but don’t get to experience the joy being with God in heaven. Even though Macabea has done nothing wrong throughout her life, the narrator still says that she dwells in the space between hell and heaven. Rodrigo could be implying that, as humanity left Macabea to suffer, God leaves humanity to suffer.
“-Gosh, it sounds like the name of a disease… A skin disease.
-I agree but it’s the name my mother gave me because of a vow she made to Our Lady of Sorrows if I should survive.” (43)
In this passage, “Our Lady of Sorrows” refers to the Virgin Mary used by Catholic churches. The Virgin Mary has multiple names that all include either: “sorrows”, “piety”, or “dolours”. By using this name and not “Virgin Mary”, the author is indicating how sorrowful Macabea’s life is. By being named after the name of sorrow, indicates how hard of an existence Macabea has, similar to Mary. When her village found out that she was pregnant, they disowned her and disrespected her. This allusion alludes to the suffering Macabea experiences in her existence.
"Olimpico de Jesus Moreira Chaves- he lied, because his real surname was simply Jesus" (44).
When I first read this, I thought that the author was implying that Olimpico was similar to Jesus, since it says that “his surname was simply Jesus”. Jesus showed kindness and love to everyone, even those that didn’t deserve that kind of treatment. But unlike Jesus, Olimpico does not act like that which makes this kind of ironic. He treats Macabea poorly by saying disrespectful things to her and is overall not a very nice person. This makes the reader dislike Olimpico more but also shows that, maybe, Macabea is not supposed to be shown any signs of kindness. The only “friend” she really had in life was her coworker, Gloria, but she didn’t even treat Macabea with respect by having a relationship with Olimpico.
"As I said before, she had no guardian angel" (62).
Guardian angels are said to watch over the humans and protect them from any source of evil. Saying that no guardian angel watches over Macabea implies her isolation in the world. The reader already knows that she lacks any friends or elderly in her life to turn to for help, but she also has no form of religious guidance in the world. This makes the reader pity Macabea a little because she has no one to turn to in desperate times of help and this displays just how lonely she really is in life. But not only does this make the reader pity her, but also show the reader how independent she is. In today’s world, we depend on family members, friends, professors, any elderly person in our life to help us get through the tough reality of life but Macabea has no one to turn to.
The Hour of the Star provides subtle references to the bible. One reference I found was “Everything in the world began with a yes” (11). This is a reference to the creation of the world as said in the book of genesis (the first book in the bible) where God decided to create the universe in almost a simplistic fashion. Lispector imitates this simplicity by claiming the universe began with a “yes” similar to when God said “Let there be…” something. The idea of simplicity of a complex issue is reflected on Lispector's view of existence whereby everything is what it is. But Lispector also acknowledges, that though the message was given simply like in the bible, she “only achieve simplicity with enormous effort” (1). Though God seemingly just created the world, the universe does not reflect the way it was created. Full of stars, physics and other complex processes that us humans have yet to understand. In Christianity, repentance and sacrifice is a fundamental part of purity. Similarly in Catholicism, there are those who call themselves nuns and priests that must remain virgins all throughout their life. As the author explains how he will create an authentic character he says that “I’ve also given up sex and football.And avoid all human contact. Shall I go back one day to my former life” (22). I believe that this is a reference to the catholic practice of being barred from marrying to remain pure. In the context of the book, Lispector compares nuns and Macabea as being poor, but Macabea is pure in that she fails to recognize her existence. When she fails to recognize her existence, then corrupting thoughts about the meaning to life, which the author confronts in the beginning of the book, will not bother her. Another biblical reference I found was “She did not know Him, therefore He did not exist”(34). This references the bible where if you may know God but he may not know you. But reverses the position that she does not know God and so he does not exist. The theme that people must know you in order for you to exist prevails in the life of Macabea. Since nobody, not even God knew her then she is completely and utterly alone. Then there is a reference to the death of Jesus where it says “For at the hour of death you become a celebrated film star…” (28). This references where the pinnacle of Jesus life (without undermining his life of course) is his death because it represents his sacrifice to save people from their sins. Death as being the most important part of your life is seen in the end of the book where people finally paid attention to Macabea right before she is about to die. Finally, when the author discusses the Sunday events of Macabea, he asks “ Surely one day she will gain a place in the paradise reserved for misfits” (34). I believe that this is a reference to Hell or Heaven though it is unclear on which one the author has in mind. Lispector uses an oxymoron to create a confusing effect. The idea of heaven and hell and how it is phrased as a question reflects the mystery behind the after-life. It also reflects Lispector’s desire for her question to be answered about the destination of people after death and what dictates that path.
“Darkness? I recall a girlfriend: she was experienced and what darkness inside her body. I never forgot her: you never forget the person you slept with. The event remains tattooed with a fiery mark on living flesh and all who glimpse the stigma flee in horror.” (10)
“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge in the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” (Gal 6:1) The bible tells a story of spiritual warfare, a fight between the good and the evil. In this case, evil is also regarded as the “flesh” which symbolizes the sinful nature of humans. Rodrigo, the narrator, is referring to his old girlfriend of whom he slept with as sinful and one who is filled with darkness and living with the flesh instead of walking with God. His word choice such as “darkness”, “fiery”, and “horror” also depicts a negative tone, which is opposite compared to Macabea’s perspective on living.
“All this, yes, the story is history. But knowing beforehand so you never forget that the word is the fruit of the word, the word must resemble the word.” (11)
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” (John 1:1) John, who wrote the book of John, started out his gospel by referring back to the Old Testament when the “Word” was spread by God Himself. This Word was the link between God and humans. But in the New Testament, when the Son of God was placed on earth, he was considered as the Word because He was introducing the people to God. Both the quote and the verse use repetition of the word “Word” to emphasize the importance of this word (lol).
“Then she asked for forgiveness of the abstract Being who gives and takes. She felt forgiven. The Being forgave her for everything.” (57)
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9) Macabea, who has never really been exposed to sugary treats until Gloria offered them, stole a cookie when Gloria was out of the room. She ended up feeling guilty and asked the “Being” for forgiveness. The narrator can be implying that Macabea was simply asking God for forgiveness but since she does not know God, he replaces His name to “Being” which indicates a higher power.
“Macabea, Hail Mary, full of grace, serene promised land, land of forgiveness, the time must come… Macabea ask for forgiveness? Because one always does. For what? Answer: that’s the way it is because that’s the way it is.” (73)
“Jesus said, ‘Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.’ And they divided up his clothes by casting lots. The people stood watching, and the rulers even sneered at him. They said, ‘He saved others; let him save himself if he is God’s Messiah, the Chosen One.’ The soldiers also came up and mocked him…” (Luke 23:34-36) While He was alive, Jesus knew of his forthcoming death. Everyone hated him during the day of his crucifixion, throwing rocks and yelling at Him. Even though he was receiving this terrible treatment, He asked God to forgive the people since they did not know why they were doing what they were doing. The quote portrays Macabea as similar to the action of Jesus since no one, except the narrator, loved her, but she still asked for forgiveness. The first line of the quote also depicts a picture of heaven, a serene land, where Macabea is supposed to be. It implies that her death was her destiny, similar to Jesus’ death.
couldn't fit all: “She sat there leaning her head on her shoulder the way a dove gets sad.” (40) “Pray forgive me this death. Because I couldn’t help it, you accept anything because you’ve kissed the wall. But then all of a sudden I feel my last grimace of revolt and howl: the slaughter of doves!!! Living is luxury.” (76)
“When the dove returned to him in the evening, there in its beak was a freshly plucked olive leaf! Then Noah knew that water had receded from the earth.” (Genesis 8:10) The story of Noah and his ark includes him sending out a dove after the flood to determine whether land is present. After seven days, the dove hands him an olive branch, signifying that it had found land. Because of this, doves and olive branches are forever regarded as symbols of peace. Throughout the story, the narrator refers to Macabea as a dove to imply that she is a peaceful human being. After her death, Rodrigo uses negative diction with interesting word choices such as “the slaughter of doves”. This can mean that her death has caused a destruction in peace.
During the first half of the book, the narrator does not mention her name and often refers to her as “the girl” or “the northeastern girl”. This implies that she does not have a name worth mentioning due to her impoverish nature. The narrator also writes, “But the person I’m going to be talking about scarcely has a body to sell, nobody wants her, she’s a virgin and harmless, nobody would miss her.” (Lispector 6). The society in which the story takes place in praises women for their body and sexuality (gender roles duh), but Rodrigo is stating that nobody would even want her for her body due to her unattractive appearance. Her life was so sad that the writer even says, “She didn’t know that she herself was a suicide although it had never crossed her mind to kill herself. Because life was more tasteless to her than old bread with no butter.” (50). He is comparing her life to WORSE than old bread without butter because who would want bread without butter. Lispector creates the character of Olimpico because a part of his role is to dehumanize her. He says, “There’s no milk in this cow.” (45) which is a metaphor for poverty. Part of a cow’s purpose is to provide milk but Olimpico is stating that Macabea has nothing to offer. He is also comparing her to a cow which is very rude. Then he does on and says, “You, Macabea, are like a hair in the soup. Nobody feels like eating it. Sorry to hurt your feelings, but I’m being honest.” (51). This occurs after he breaks up with her for Gloria and is another example of comparing her life to food. Gloria, in the story, can be considered as her foil character. She is not the prettiest but she walks with confidence, swaying her hips everywhere, and is fat, implying that she has the privilege to eat whatever she wants, unlike Macabea, who wishes she was as fat as her. The narrator writes, “From her hips you could tell Gloria was made for childbearing. Whereas Macabea seemed to have in herself her own end.” (51). This quote indicates that Macabea does not have the qualifications for giving birth, dehumanizing her since that society probably view women as the caretaker of the house. Gloria then says, “Sorry for asking: does being ugly hurt?” (53). Obviously she’s not sorry for asking because her question ended being the most rude thing ever.
Pg 13 “Unlike the reader, I reserve the right to be devastatingly cold, for this is not simply a narrative, but above all primary life” Pg 86 “at heart, Macabea was little better than a music box sadly out of tune” Pg 32 “It must be said that the girl is not conscious of my presence. Were it otherwise, she would have someone to pray for and that would mean salvation.” Pg 46 “Macabea was undeniably a primitive creature while Olimpico de Jesus saw himself as a man about town” Pg 26 “She had been born with a legacy of misfortune, a creature from nowhere with the expression of someone who apologizes for occupying too much space” Pg 23 “As for the girl, she exists in an impersonal limbo, untouched by what is worst or best. She merely exists... Her existence is sparse
In hour of the star, Clarice Lispector regularly uses Rodrigo SM to dehumanize Macabea. It seems that Rodrigo has a very strange “relationship” with Macabea, as some of the time he seems to look upon her with pity or even admiration, however the majority of the time he either regards her neutrally or degrades her as a person. The quotes above are all examples of times in which Rodrigo dehumanizes Macabea or otherwise regards her as lower than himself and others. The reason Lispector does this is to show that, to Rodrigo and most of the rest of the people in the novella, Macabea is “just another poor girl”. Rodrigo also notes that her story is not just a narrative but a “primary life” To me, this means that the story of Macabea is a first hand account of lives that are playing out similarly throughout the urban world. To accomplish this dehumanizing effect, Lispector uses metaphors that both demean Macabea and detach Rodrigo from her experiences. Rodrigo refers to her as a “music box sadly out of tune” and a “primitive creature, both of which make Macabea out to be less than human. This demeaning effect shows how easy it is be indifferent to the poverty and suffering of a girl who you perceive to be less than you. This is paired with a detached tone, as Rodrigo states that “she merely exists” and “the girl is not conscious of my presence”. These statements make it clear that in order to be this cold towards Macabea, Rodrigo must more or less maintain a sort of distance from her. The point of this is to emphasize the fact that large cities create a community in which most of the residents are detached from one another, and thus are able to treat each other with the same cold dehumanization that Rodrigo uses for Macabea.
I have not finished Hour of the Star, but so far this what is I think of the dehumanization:
Lispector is not dehumanizing, but rather humanizing and vocalizing and making tangible and putting into words exactly what each human soul screams; sometimes silently, sometimes as a loud ravaging rant. It puts into question the eternal disturber of truth and happiness, complacency and the acquittal of bottomless searching: the questioning of our purpose, is it suffering?, is it searching?, is it the blind recognition and admittance of a cold universe?, void of true knowledge? By “dehumanizing” Macabea, Rodrigo (who is really just a mouthpiece for Lispector) is able to describe all these things that are too fearful to place on a regular, (seemingly) happy human. Perhaps because she is blind to her suffering, unknowing, or in a better description, accepting of her suffering. (But this is just incomprehensible for us! We, at least I, cannot understand how such a human can develop and descend so far below… or perhaps we are all below, we are just not aware, and she has come to be comfortable down here) But this is not just Macabea’s suffering because she is ugly and lives a pathetic life in chains and in poverty, it is the sufferings of each human being, because of the essence in being human, and coming to the realization and questioning of your entire existence.
Perhaps the reason the narrator is afraid to define and describe Macabea, is because he is afraid to confront his existence, and that question which the novel circulates around. He spends umpting amounts of pages blabbering on about how he is distraught with her existence and has come to question his entire race and is ravaging his soul in an attempt to explain it. I get it. But maybe, more simply, he is afraid, and so he avoids directly describing her. But when he does, he does not lie and water it down in any degree:
“She had been born with a legacy of misfortune, a creature from nowhere with the expression of someone who apologizes for occupying too much space.” (26) Macabea has an entire conscious that is an entire sub-level below everyone else, and she realizes this. But does she really? Or is Macabea the most genuinely genius and enlightened one of the book? “She didn’t know that she herself was a suicide although it had never crossed her mind to kill herself. Because life was more tasteless to her than old bread with no butter.” (50). This is the opinion of Rodrigo: that she is a suicide. ( a noun) Because her life is so terrible and the world seems so pitiless: it is a Hell, death would be inviting, a silence, a satisfaction and rest. “As for the girl, she exists in an impersonal limbo, untouched by what is worst or best. She merely exists... Her existence is sparse.” (23) Macabea is a wayfarer of the human existence. She is so far off from the ideal, the ideal that is created but the success of those who are believed to have conquered their eternal enemy, so far from what is desired, she resides in that space, completely alone.
I think the reason why Lispector dehumanizes Macabea through Rodrigo’s harsh comments about her is to show readers the sad, cold hard truth about the real urban world. Most middle-class and upper-class citizens don’t take the time to consider how the lower-class citizens are able to live in this world. They’re mostly concerned about trying to stay in style and are worrying about themselves. Most don’t even know the hardship that lower-class citizens go through trying to be able to eat, be clothed, and have a roof over their heads. But not only is Lispector trying to let the reader know of the hardships of what it is to be poor but also she is kind of dehumanizing the other citizens in this book. No one really seems to pay attention to Macabea, just like how most citizens don’t tend to pay attention to the homeless or needy in the real world. By doing this, Lispector is showing the reader, truly, how cruel the world can be towards others. I think the reason why Lispector is trying to show the reader how cruel reality actually is to teach everyone a lesson. There are many people out there in the world, suffering, while the rest of us live in luxury and happiness.
Throughout The Hour of the Star, Clarice Lispector includes many instances of her character Rodrigo referring to Macabéa as an object or something other than human. He frequently calls her as an object to emphasize the fact that she is poor and worthless, something Clarice Lispector is trying to bring to light in her novel. She lived in Brazil through her life, and she’s sharing with her readers the poor lives of women in Río so that we’ll be more aware of what some people’s lives are like. One instance of dehumanization in the novel is as follows: “She didn’t even realize she lived in a technical society in which she was a dispensable cog” (21). In direction relation to the urban world, this quote shows how people in society are simply parts of a machine. It suggests that people, such as Macabéa, can be easily replaced by another that functions better. Another dehumanization: “And, if she thought about it, she might say she sprouted from the soil of the Alagoas blacklands like an instantly molded mushroom” 21). This suggests that Macabéa was worthless right from her birth. She was “instantly molded” and already born a fungus, unwanted in society. It’s interesting how the author doesn’t bother to give Macabéa any redeeming qualities – why is she described as such a depraved character? The next dehumanization: “Because she lacked fat and her body was drier than a half-empty sack of crumbled toast” (30). This dehumanization compares the girl to something unwanted, a dry, half piece of crumbled toast. Next, “You, Macabéa, are like a hair in the soup. Nobody feels like eating it” (51). This quote shows Macabéa as out of place – similar to her place in society. She doesn’t seem like she belongs in the world, because she has nothing to give back to it. Later, “Her vagina was the only vehement sign of her existence” (70). This statement gives more value to her vagina than to her own personality… how cruel! “Macabéa was nothing but a vague sentiment lying on the dirty paving stones” (83). This final example of dehumanization indicates that Macabéa is so insignificant that she can’t be seen even amongst the many other insignificant people. She’s a speck of dust with the cluster of dust. Also relating to society, there are so many people in poverty and in the same position as Macabéa, that we don’t distinguish between them. We clump them all together and define that group of people as just “poor.” Nothing more.
“The girl didn't know she existed, just as a dog doesn’t know that it’s a dog” (27) ”And since I have discovered almost everything about her, she has clung to my skin like some viscous glue or contaminating mud” (21) "She wasn't even aware that she lived in a technological society where she was a mere cog in the machine" (29) "... her vagina was the only vehement sign of her existence" (70) "[Macabea] Like a hen with its neck half-severed, running about in a panic and dripping blood" (80) "Dying, Macabea became air" (85)
In these instances of Lispector dehumanizing Macabea, she is compared to unwanted objects or disgusting things showing her little significance in society. As cruel as this sounds, in the urban world, full of people who are ignored, this is true to those who are poor. That is why Lispector has the need to write about her as I discussed in earlier blogs. In one of the quotes, Macabea's only significant sign of existence is her "vagina" (70). In all urban cultures, prostitution is part of the modern setting. Since Macabea only existence is based on vagina, it shows how the only way she can bring herself into existence is through prostitution. But because she has "shown no signs of becoming a prostitute" so her existence is obsolete (28). Another aspect of urban population is the constant need for progression and the workforce required to feed this. Because Macabea is not exactly the most productive or contributing member of society, she is compared to a "cog" in a technological world. We value ourselves in being able to be self productive and efficient, unlike Macabea who relies on her aunt for shelter. She is like "air" that exists but is not visible to the naked eye and therefore does not really exist. Only at her death is she finally a star since the pinnacle of life is death after all. Right? Because of all these dehumanizing effects, Lispector feels the need to write about her like "contaminating mud" unto her skin. Essentially, her existence is forced into Lispector's thoughts as she recalls her memories of her own when she visited the city. Lispector has witnessed the poverty in Rio and probably had the thousands of poor girls in her mind as he wrote about Macabea
One example of Hour of the Star being an experimental novel is that there is no clear protagonist. In most novels, there is a clear conflict between two forces, sometimes a person and their own self, but often some form of good versus evil conflict. In The Hour of the Star, this conflict is not well defined. By proxy, it is difficult to tell who the protagonist is because we don’t really know who the story is about-- Rodrigo and his journey to determine the various truths and miseries that go along with Macabea’s life, or Macabea struggling to survive in a world that is cold and ignorant towards her struggles. I believe Lispector used this unclearness to emphasize the fact that in the real world, there very rarely are true protagonists-- everyone is a protagonist in his or her own life but to the rest of the world they are far less defined. Another example of how the novel is experimental is that it deals with intensely internal and psychological or philosophical questions. These questions motivate the narrator and his characters. Rodrigo often poses these questions directly to the audience, for example when Lispector writes, “But who am I to censure the guilty? The worst part is that I must forgive them” (81). This is a great example of Rodrigo asking a philosophical question that guides his narrative perspective. As Rodrigo struggles to answer these questions, we often see them shape his writing in the form of breaks from the narrative to discuss the questions. We also see these questions take a toll on Rodrigo as he makes himself out to be in quite a state of distress. Lispector likely included these questions to make the reader think harder about these questions and prove that there is no easy or universal answer to them Another way Hour of the Star is an Experimental Novel is that it utilizes a stream of consciousness form of narration. The narration in the novel seems like an uninterrupted flow of thoughts from the narrator-- we even hear from him what he does outside of his writing, like growing a beard and taking rests, in his writing. This connects the reader better to Rodrigo which is extremely important in this novel because the novel centers around the philosophical questions he asks- by giving the reader a more intimate knowledge of Rodrigo, Lispector allows the reader to engage more with his musings. The last reason that Hour of the Star fits the mold of an experimental novel is that it focuses solely on the ordinary, and is dedicated to not making it out to be more than it actually is. Rodrigo notes that “I have no intention of adorning the word, for were I to touch the girl’s bread, that bread would turn to gold” (15). He claims that to even use a big, fancy vocabulary would be to turn Macabea’s life into something more than the sad (or happy, depending one one’s viewpoint) but ordinary tale that it really is. There is no happy ending to the novel, nor does Macabea reach any sort of pinnacle other than her inevitable death. This makes the novel truly a tale of an ordinary person living a miserable life-- something few other novels dare to expose, thus making this a very different kind of novel.
The Hour of the Star can be considered an Experimental Novel by the character Rodrigo, as he shows the characteristics of the description in the prompt. He has an internal conflict in himself and questions various aspects of life in his vast psychological world, he contradicts himself frequently, and he is motivated by something unknown to him. The “antihero” mentioned in the description may seem like it refers to Macabéa for her “ordinariness,” but Rodrigo is just as ordinary in his world, as a secluded writer who strays from social encounter.
Rodrigo contradicts himself throughout the introduction of the book, and these examples remain a clear indication that this novel is Experimental. He begins, “I know splendid adjectives, meaty nouns, and verbs so slender that they travel sharp through the air about to go into actions, since words are actions” (7). Just a page later, he writes “Words are sounds transfused with unequal shadows” (8) and later says, “Could it really be that the action is beyond the word?” (9). Just here, Rodrigo contradicts himself three times within three pages. Words cannot be actions and sounds at the same time - and actions can also not be beyond the word, if the action IS the word. This is an example of irrationality, rooted from the character’s psychological conflict and further defines this book as an Experimental Novel.
Rodrigo also begins the novel with various questions of the world, a characteristic of an Experimental Novel. He says, “As long as I have questions and no answers I’ll keep writing” (1). “How do you start at the beginning if things happen before they happen?” (1). Here, he displays his need to find answers, and his inability to do so. He frequently questions things about the world and shows the depth of his curiosity, something an Experiment Novel has in its character.
Finally, Rodrigo presents his motivations for writing his book without a clear explanation - as if he doesn’t know why he’s writing. This is also seen through the way he writes, in a stream of consciousness narration style. These two ways relate to the description that “he is motivated by deep unconscious sources of his nature.” He doesn’t know why he’s writing, but he knows he must do it. He says, “I am forced to seek the truth that transcends me” (20). Here, he indicates that he knows he cannot reach truth, but recognizes that it’s his duty to seek it out. This is a characteristic of an Experimental Novel, and Rodrigo, as the antihero, expresses this to the readers.
The Hour of the Star can be considered an Experimental Novel by the character Rodrigo, as he shows the characteristics of the description in the prompt. He has an internal conflict in himself and questions various aspects of life in his vast psychological world, he contradicts himself frequently, and he is motivated by something unknown to him. The “antihero” mentioned in the description may seem like it refers to Macabéa for her “ordinariness,” but Rodrigo is just as ordinary in his world, as a secluded writer who strays from social encounter.
Rodrigo contradicts himself throughout the introduction of the book, and these examples remain a clear indication that this novel is Experimental. He begins, “I know splendid adjectives, meaty nouns, and verbs so slender that they travel sharp through the air about to go into actions, since words are actions” (7). Just a page later, he writes “Words are sounds transfused with unequal shadows” (8) and later says, “Could it really be that the action is beyond the word?” (9). Just here, Rodrigo contradicts himself three times within three pages. Words cannot be actions and sounds at the same time - and actions can also not be beyond the word, if the action IS the word. This is an example of irrationality, rooted from the character’s psychological conflict and further defines this book as an Experimental Novel.
Rodrigo also begins the novel with various questions of the world, a characteristic of an Experimental Novel. He says, “As long as I have questions and no answers I’ll keep writing” (1). “How do you start at the beginning if things happen before they happen?” (1). Here, he displays his need to find answers, and his inability to do so. He frequently questions things about the world and shows the depth of his curiosity, something an Experiment Novel has in its character.
Finally, Rodrigo presents his motivations for writing his book without a clear explanation - as if he doesn’t know why he’s writing. This is also seen through the way he writes, in a stream of consciousness narration style. These two ways relate to the description that “he is motivated by deep unconscious sources of his nature.” He doesn’t know why he’s writing, but he knows he must do it. He says, “I am forced to seek the truth that transcends me” (20). Here, he indicates that he knows he cannot reach truth, but recognizes that it’s his duty to seek it out. This is a characteristic of an Experimental Novel, and Rodrigo, as the antihero, expresses this to the readers.
Antihero, mostly regarded as the protagonist of the story, lack many “heroic qualities” and obtain a simple and ordinary lifestyle. Due to Rodrigo’s, the narrator of The Hour of the Star, unreliability, his use of stream of consciousness, syntax, and the overall structure of the novel, the book can be classified as an experimental novel. Although Rodrigo may seem like a simple man, his outlook on life--for example, the pre-prehistory or the effects of writing--have created a complicated and warped tone for the story. Contradiction is prevalent throughout the plot as it progresses. In the beginning, Rodrigo would talk down on Macabea, stating that she is unworthy and unattractive. But then he claims, “She didn’t have that delicate thing called charm. I’m the only one who finds her charming. Only I, her author, love her. I suffer for her.” (19). He also mentions, “So I have to speak simply to capture her delicate and vague existence” (7), but continues to confuse his readers with his extravagant vocabulary and disorganized structure. This shows the unreliability of the human mind and how often it is distorted. The use of stream of consciousness sets a tone of uncertainty since it provides a continuous flow of the narrator’s thoughts and feelings. He compares the structure of the story as having “no technique, nor style, it lives from hand to mouth.” (28). Many times he would go off topic from telling the story of Macabea and includes his perspective on life and how the character he had created affected him. There are also many music references throughout the novel, For example, he claims, “this story lacks a cantabile melody. Its rhythm is sometimes discordant.” (8) which is referring to twelve-tone method of music mentioned in Author’s Dedication. The twelve-tone music refers to the lack of harmony and using every note on the scale equally. Incorporating the comparison of music may show the inequality found in society and how the characters in the novel treat Macabea differently. It can also shadow Macabea’s lifestyle since there are many instances where Rodrigo mentions that she is living aimlessly.
3) I believe that Macabea was as happy as she could be in her situation. She realized she had limited benefits and experience, and that she wasn't the most beautiful or intelligent. However, she was able to find beauty and pleasure within the simple things, and this shows pure acceptance of fate. Therefore, it would be wrong to feel sorry for one who is happy, because an important and successful part of life is finding one's happiness. We can't feel sorry for someone who is happy, because then we fail as individuals to grasp the concept of satisfaction. In some eyes she is pitiful because she does not realize she lacks nice things, but it is again pointless to feel sorry for someone who themselves do not feel sorry. 8) Dying a virgin, in Macabea's case, might represent the pity Rodrigo felt for her when writing the story. She lacked so much experience in life, that her dying a virgin adds to the annoyance felt by the audience that she didn't get to live out a full life. Another way of looking at it is to compare her death to the death of an angel; she died pure and innocent, and this adds beauty to Macabea that many readers are unable to see. Lastly, her death can be symbolic of tragedy, which connects to the overarching problem of poverty in Brazil, particularly Rio. 17) What is the significance of Rodrigo throughout the story? Is he there to provide another perspective throughout the story, does he act as an antagonist, or is he a voice of existentialism? Why didn't Lispector narrate the story herself? Why the importance of choosing Macabea as the protagonist of the story?
At the beginning of the third section the narrator finally introduces himself as Rodrigo S.M. Not only is this the first time we hear his name, it is the only time! In addition, the narrator never actually met Macabea. The reader must question if anything Rodrigo says about Macabea is true. For example, if Macabea is even her real name. Another reason that suggests that Rodrigo may not be the most reliable narrator is that he practically says he does not even care about Macabea. He writes, “It is true that I, too, feel no pity for my main character, the girl from the North- East” (13). If he is saying he cares just as little about Macabea as everyone else why is he going to tell us her story? He says he is writing to make the reader aware of a problem that a large group of girls are struggling from the affects of poverty, just like Macabea. However, I am not sure how he could be concerned about the well being of the group as a whole, while not caring about Macabea. Rodrigo displays his arrogance as he writes, “I am warming up before making a start, rubbing my hands together to summon up my courage” (14). In addition to this sentence, he goes on for ever explaining why he is going to tell the story and apologizing for telling it, rather than simply telling the story. It is obvious that the narrator takes himself very seriously and believes that the story he is about to tell is very important.
Some of the literary devices that I noticed throughout my passage, the third one, are antithesis and the tone of the passage. Throughout the entirety of the passage, the narrator speaks of how he is going to be telling the life story of the girl from the North-east. When the narrator explains how the tone of the story is going to be, the narrator seems to have an indifferent tone. He says things like, “morbid or pitiless,” and “I, too, feel no pity for my main character,” and “I want my story to be cold and impartial,” and “I reserve the right to be devastatingly cold”. When he says this, it seems as if he does not care about the sad life story of the girl from the North-east. Later on in the passage, the narrator starts talking about how only a man could write this life story because a woman would weep her heart out. When reading this, the reader can formulate a conclusion that maybe the narrator has an indifferent tone so that he does not feel anything when writing because of how devastating this life story is. Also, the narrator describes how he prays and he empties his soul. After this he says, “But emptiness, too, has its value and somehow resembles abundance”. My group and I thought that this meant that the narrator prays to feel empty and has an indifferent tone because he wants to feel emotionless when writing this life story; he is trying to prepare himself for what he has to do. This passage has a depressing tone to it because of how the narrator describes this pain. My group and I thought that this passage was written to inform the reader of how the narrator is coping with this life story he has to write and some background information on what the book is going to be about.
ReplyDeleteOur passage for the Close Reading Discussion is #1, “Dedication by the Author”. After analyzing, the passage serves as a small glimpse of the overall structure and context of the novel. Lispector writes, “Most of all I dedicate it to the yesterdays of today and to today, to the transparent veil of Debussy, to Marlos Nobre, to Prokofiev, to Carl Orff and Schoenberg, to the twelve-tone composers…” (Lispector xiii). The twelve-tone technique refers to a method using all of the twelve tones on the scale equally without much emphasis on one note. The result of this type of music has no rhythm and sounds poorly put together. This is similar to the style of writing Lispector uses throughout the novel when the narrator jumps from one topic to another with no actual structure. The narrator says, “...this story has no technique, nor style, it lives from hand to mouth.” (28) which is acknowledging the use of stream of consciousness where the writer writes exactly what is going through his head. It can also be compared to Macabea’s life since she mostly wanders and live aimlessly in the book. A theme that arises in The Hour of the Star is questioning existence and looking for answers. The narrator writes, “Is there another answer in the world? If anyone knows a better one speak up and tell me, I’ve been waiting fo ryears.” (18). This relates to our passage since Lispector mentions the symbol of atoms and how one cannot see it but it exists. The only thing one can do is to accept that it is real rather than not believe. She also says, “It’s an unfinished book because it’s still waiting for an answer.” (xiv) which emphasizes the ongoing quest for “answers” and waiting for it to arrive.
ReplyDeleteThe section I read for the close reading assignment was the sixth section. In this section, the narrator is still introducing himself and the story he is about to tell. He focuses particularly on his writing style and the way that this story changes it in this section. One of the main things I noticed in this section was heavy use of personification, metaphors and similes. These metaphors are usually used to make the writing and the situations Rodrigo presents seem more fantastic or unrealistic than they actually are. For example on page 17, Lispector writes, “so called sorrow is borne with the dignity of an aristocrat”. Despite the fact that sorrow is a fairly mundane and normal emotion, Rodrigo exaggerates reality by claiming that it is carried with as much dignity as an aristocrat. These metaphors serve to make the tone more detached from reality because of the way that these metaphors distort reality. This detached tone is typical of Rodrigo throughout the book and is one of the ways that Lispector dehumanizes the people in the story. The tone of this section also connected with the motif of reality presented in the second paragraph.. Rodrigo discusses the idea that perhaps he is unable to write about reality, “since reality exceeds me”. This implies that he is able to write about fiction easier than about reality. I believe that the author included this quote to illuminate that reality is sometimes harder to understand than fiction. This fits with the heavy use of metaphors in the passage because it shows that Rodrigo is trying to compare the real to the fictitious to understand it.
ReplyDeleteThe passage that I investigated was passage #3. In this passage, I noticed lots of background information about the narrator and antithesis, which stands out in the passage. The passage reads, “But emptiness, too, has its value and somehow resembles abundance” (Lispector, 14). This contradicts itself as the narrator is saying that having nothing is equivalent to having a lot. Discussed in our group was also the idea that the emptiness is a symbol for the narrator’s emotional state of being. He says in the previous lines, “I am warming up before making a start, rubbing my hands together to summon up my courage” (14). He says that his story is going to be very depressing, talking about a girl living in Rio who has no use. The narrator calls them “superfluous” and says, “nobody cares a damn about their existence” (14). Because this story is going to be so sad with the “worthless” girls, the narrator must warm himself up to begin. The emptiness he speaks of is apathy, his removal of emotions so that he may tell a story with no sympathy for the protagonist. The purpose of this passage is to introduce the tone of the story, to tell the reader that they must beware of what is coming. It’s almost as if it’s a warning sign, alerting the reader that they must not attach themselves to the character. Also, as I read this passage, I felt as if Clarice Lispector had written it through her perspective. She, too, is not one to sugarcoat things, and she must have included some of her own thoughts in this narrator that tells the story. For example, “I want my story to be cold and impartial. Unlike the reader, I reserve the right to be devastatingly cold, for this is not simply a narrative but above all primary life that breathes, breathes, breathes” (13). It’s ironic because the narrator is saying these words, but it is written by Lispector and could easily be applied to her own writing, as well.
ReplyDeleteThe passage I analyzed was the fourth passage which was filled with thoughts from the narrator and a brief piece of characterization about the main character, Macabea. Mixing these two characters together creates an almost magical realistic effect where a seemingly real character can be controlled by another character at will. Sure enough in writing, as what the narrator is doing, the author essentially creates a new life and has the power to control it. This relationship between the narrator and Macabea can be seen in this passage. Bread in this passage is described turning to gold if the narrator if he adorns the word or the writing. As a result “the girl would be unable to bite into it, and consequently die of hunger” (Lispector 14). Earlier in the passage, the author explains that he wants to express himself “simply in order to capture her delicate and shadowy existence” (15). By using eloquent language as a means to entertain, the author loses focus on the delicate “craft” of the character. The bread symbolizes the characters livelihood, a piece of characterization. Using too many “succulent terms” would hide or hinder showing the true nature of the girl. Therefore she will die because her true self would no longer exist but rather a different character all the more. This is why the narrator describes his writing that it “emanates a secret meaning” because his writing, and consequently the character herself, he says “stems from me only to return to me” (14-15). The characterization of Macabea remains a mystery (obviously shown through the high level of analysis to understand the story) after being buried by simplicity and the delicate craftsmanship needed to create the narrator’s true intentions. The character of Macabea is not meant for entertainment, but rather to address Lispector's own conundrums about metaphysical or existential topics that inspired her to write the Hour of the Star. In order to do this, the main character must be delivered with a level of simplicity and mystery to separate her from other characters in the world of literature.
ReplyDelete12. What is the significance of Rodrigo’s use of syntax (complex sentences, use of dashes/hyphens, unusual use of punctuation, like colons, etc.)?
ReplyDeleteThroughout the novel, Rodrigo refers to his writing as art. He writes, “I write in bold and severe painter’s strokes.” (Lispector 9) implying that this novel is his masterpiece. His word choice “bold” and “severe” creates a mental picture of harsh and sudden. This reflects Rodrigo’s use of syntax, shown through the conventions and complex sentences, to create this work of art. The fluidity of the story can also be compared to twelve-tone music, a technique that does not sound aesthetically pleasing whatsoever. At one point he writes, “That’s because this story lacks a cantabile melody, Its rhythm is sometimes discordant.” (8) where cantabile means smooth and discordant can be defined as harsh due to lack of harmony. Acknowledging this, Rodrigo lacks the structure a normal writer would try and incorporate in his writing.
14. How are the philosophical thoughts reflected in Rodrigo’s narration?
There are many instances where philosophical thoughts are reflected through Rodrigo’s narration. The use of stream of consciousness allows the reader to grasp these raw emotions and capture what the writer is really thinking right then and there. For example, the theme of questioning and seeking answers is prevalent throughout the novel. In the introduction the writer mentions, “As long as I have questions and no answers, I’ll keep on writing.” (3) and soon follows with, “Is there another answer in the world? If anyone knows a better one speak up and tell me, I’ve been waiting for years.” (18). This shows that there are many “unknowns” in the world and we can only ask and wonder what the answer may be. Also tying into the unknown, questioning existence is also found in the book. He writes, “And I want to accept my freedom without thinking what so many do, that existing is something for fools… Existing isn’t logical.” (12). This implies that existence isn’t a fact given or something that we know. It is a question rather than a statement.
16. What role does gender play in the story? Why is the narrator male? Is there cultural and/or thematic significance for the gender roles?
In the novel, gender role plays an important factor in terms of seeing women as pieces of meat. The writer even says, “I know there are girls who sell their bodies, their only real possession (wtf), in exchange for a good dinner instead of a bologna sandwich. But the person I’m going to talk about scarcely has a body to sell, nobody wants her, she’s a virgin and harmless, nobody would miss her.” (5-6). Apparently in the setting where the book takes place, prostitution is a norm and a route young women take. Because of Macabea’s physical outlook, the writer is implying that no one would ever want her due to her unattractive appearance. Having a male narrator also provides a perspective on a man’s view in the society.
In my analyzation of passage one, it became very clear that one of the largest inspirations for Hour of the Star is music, and in a wider sense: creation. The author discussed topics such as atoms, the granules of all creation, of coherent and incoherent sound waves (that we call music), and pleasing and displeasing identifications of the soul’s self. One very interesting reference was the inspiration and gratitude expressed by the writer for 12-tone music. Twelve-tone music is not very pretty, very haunting and ugly in fact. In (most) regular music, music that is pleasing to our ears and hearts as human’s, there are seven tones utilized, with one (the tonic) as the “home”, where much music begins and ends. In an octave, there are 12 chromatic tones possible, and serialism (12-tone music) utilizes each of these tones equally- almost as a theological and philosophical approach to music rather than an emotional and artistic one. Because it utilizes each tone, the music lacks appealing sound, and most importantly, is characterized by its lack of a “home”. (It essentially is plunking each note on the keyboard at random and calling it a melody) Similarly, in Hour of the Star, this incoherent lostness and randomness and pure unprettiness is portrayed and expressed through the author’s ravaged story of Macabea. The story perhaps reveals more about the writer than the subject.
ReplyDeleteIn my analyzation of passage one, it became very clear that one of the largest inspirations for Hour of the Star is music, and in a wider sense: creation. The author discussed topics such as atoms, the granules of all creation, of coherent and incoherent sound waves (that we call music), and pleasing and displeasing identifications of the soul’s self. One very interesting reference was the inspiration and gratitude expressed by the writer for 12-tone music. Twelve-tone music is not very pretty, very haunting and ugly in fact. In (most) regular music, music that is pleasing to our ears and hearts as human’s, there are seven tones utilized, with one (the tonic) as the “home”, where much music begins and ends. In an octave, there are 12 chromatic tones possible, and serialism (12-tone music) utilizes each of these tones equally- almost as a theological and philosophical approach to music rather than an emotional and artistic one. Because it utilizes each tone, the music lacks appealing sound, and most importantly, is characterized by its lack of a “home”. (It essentially is plunking each note on the keyboard at random and calling it a melody) Similarly, in Hour of the Star, this incoherent lostness and randomness and pure unprettiness is portrayed and expressed through the author’s ravaged story of Macabea. The story perhaps reveals more about the writer than the subject.
ReplyDeleteWhat is the point of Rodrigo’s introduction?
ReplyDeleteIt’s interesting how Clarice Lispector’s story is about another author writing a story. (Inception!) However, this author doesn’t delve right into his story, he instead begins with a stream of consciousness of random thoughts, often contradicting himself along the way. So why was this introduction included? He talks a lot about how poor Macabéa is, how terrible her life is, and brings up ideas about existence in general, as well. The narrator also says, “this lengthy preamble is intended to conceal the poverty of this story” (22). Perhaps the story is so discouraging that the narrator feels it is his duty to distract you first, so you aren’t going to feel disappointed as his real story comes.
Why do you think Macabéa “loved” Olímpico?
Macabéa loved Olímpico because she truly had no knowledge of the alternative. She was so pure and naïve that she did not know much about life, and couldn’t distinguish love from admiration or any other form of emotion. She loved him because she had no experience with a man who treated her well, or with anyone who also loved her. It’s easy to attach yourself to someone when you are alone for so long, and in Macabéas case, she neither had people around her, or a luxurious life. So, in her hole of poverty and loneliness, she clings to the first man that takes interest in her and she appears to “love” him.
Is Rodrigo the protagonist in the novel? Or is it Macabéa?
The protagonist in the novel is most likely Rodrigo. When you think about it, the story itself is about a writer – not about a woman in Rio. So if the story is about a writer, this character’s creation cannot be the protagonist. Although she is involved in all of the conflicts and goes through her life, she is only a side story to the main writer’s life.
What does Macabea’s death represent? How does it fit in with the overall message of the book?
ReplyDeleteI believe that Macabea’s death is representative of the fact that Macabea had finally begun to ask herself who she really was. The fortune teller revealed to her for the first time that her life was actually quite terrible, something Macabea really had never considered until this point. Because of this, “she felt like weeping as she perceived the other side” (78). Rodrigo went on to note that Macabea had experienced something almost like a death sentence- because her old life of ignorant bliss had been shattered by the fortune teller, she would now have to find a way to make her life less miserable. It makes sense that Macabea dies here because earlier in the book Rodrigo says “Were she foolish enough to ask herself ‘Who am I?’, She would fall flat on her face” (15). Interestingly, right after the first time in her life she asks herself this question, she literally falls flat on her face and then dies after being hit by the Mercedes. This fits in with the theme of self knowledge that is present throughout the book. The book seems to imply that lack of self- knowledge can actually keep a person in blissful happiness, while self- knowledge itself can destroy a person. In this case, it is literally the moment of self realization in which Macabea is killed
What was Lispector’s purpose in writing this book? What is the theme?
This is probably the most difficult question for me personally because I see a number of themes that all come together in this book, most of them philosophical in nature. First of all, I think the novel centers largely around the plight of the poor and destitute in an often cold and unfeeling world. However, I don’t think that this is the main theme of the novel. I noticed a lot of philosophical rhetorical questions throughout the novel, such as, “am I a monster or is this what it means to be a person?”(15), and the question of identity, “Who am I?”. The rhetorical questions combined with the theme of blissful ignorance symbolized by Macabea make me wonder if the message of the novel has something to do with life and reality creating more questions than answers, and that ignorance of these questions may be easier than trying to answer them-- but could ultimately lead to disaster once they can no longer be ignored.
Was Macabea happy? Are we meant to feel sorry for her? If she is self- content, is she so pitiful after all?
I believe that, by most people’s definition, Macabea was not happy. However, because Macabea’s life was so miserable, I believe that she never experienced happiness and thus did not know what it really was. Because of this, she thought of herself as a happy person because she did not really know what else to think. Right after Macabea learns of her fortune, and her current misery, Rodrigo notes “until this moment, Macabea had thought of herself as being happy” (78). The reason Lispector uses the word “thought” is to show that Macabea does not really “know” anything, especially not how miserable she is. This is what makes Macabea pitiful- she knows nothing and thus is at the mercy of anyone who reveals any truths about the world to her. However, I think Lispector leaves it up to the reader to decide whether we should feel sorry for her- Rodrigo himself notes that “Unlike the reader, I reserve the right to be devastatingly cold” (13). While Rodrigo attempts to write only with facts to ensure that he doesn't evoke pity in the audience, he leaves plenty of room for the reader to feel it if they choose
Was Macabéa happy? Are we meant to feel sorry for her? If she is self-content, is she so pitiful after all?
ReplyDeleteI think that, even though Rodrigo explains in his introduction how miserable this life story is, Macabea is still somewhat happy with her life. The reader may not recognize any signs of happy with the description of her life, but I think that Macabea had some happiness inside her. With teenagers reading this book in my generation, we have money, clothes, parents that spoil us, and many opportunities that Macabea was not able to have. With this information, I think that we come to a conclusion that we should feel sorry for her. She was not a girl that was liked or even really noticed by anyone and we think of that as being associated with a “loner”. With everything that we are able to resources to versus the life of Macabea, we feel the need to feel sorry for her because she seems lonely, doesn’t really have much friends and if she does, not very good ones, and she doesn’t have all of the resources we have nowadays. We kind of assume that Macabea is unhappy with her lifestyle and that we should feel sorry her but we don’t know for sure if she is unhappy with her life but I do think that we should feel a little pity for her. No one should have to live a life that Macabea lives.
Why do you think Macabéa “loved” Olímpico?
I think that Macabea “loved” Olimpico because he was the first person to ever show any kind of affection towards her. For most of her life, she’s been living in the shadows, not being noticed by anyone around her. Even though she may talk to her coworkers and may have some friends, they don’t really show any feelings of affection towards her which I think is what she was wanting more than anything in life; was someone to show some kind of affection to her, showing that they cared in some way. Macabea has gone most of her life not getting noticed by a man and she finally caught one’s eye. Even though Olimpico didn’t really seem to care for her while they were “dating”, he was still the first guy to take interest in Macabea, making her happy.
What is the point of Rodrigo’s introduction?
I think that the point of Rodrigo’s introduction was to foreshadow what the story was going to be about. Throughout the entirety of the introduction, Rodrigo discusses a lot about how much of a miserable and sad life that the girl from the North-east lives. He mentions how he is preparing himself to tell this story because of how sad it is and that he is trying to empty his soul so to not get attached to the girl from the North-east. Also, he goes into some parts of his life and how he feels when writing the introduction and how he feels about having to write this life story. He also questions, since this life story is so sad, if there really is any happiness in the world, which I thought was interesting to think about.
The purpose of this novel is clearly expressed in the beginning parts of the book as the reader is introduce to the character Rodrigo M.S, the narrator and author of the story. Beginning with a discussion about the beginning of the world, motifs of existence are shown. The narrator speculates about the birth of the universe but says "I do not know why, but I do know that the universe never began" (Lispector 11). The theme that the universe never began prevails all throughout the book. The narrator theorizes that everything will exist and had existed in the "prehistory of prehistory" and maybe even the prehistory of that. That is why the narrator questions " How does one start at the beginning, if things happen before they actually happen" ; a question the 3 dimensional human mind has a hard time understanding. Thus, with such difficult questions to understand Lispector reveals the his purpose through the medium of seemingly insignificant people, Macabea. He believes it is his "duty to relate everything about this girl among thousands like her" to show to others and herself her existence.
ReplyDeleteThis story travels back and forth between the thoughts of the narrator and Macabea's story, allowing for a confusing focus for the story. But Rodrigo is the main character with the main conflict as stated earlier his questioning for existence and why some peoples' existence remains unnoticed. Macabea is simply an instrument for Rodrigo to confront the reader about the existence of people , to result " in my transfiguration into someone else and in my ultimate materialization into an object" (20). The story revolves around the narrators goal to reach out to everyone end essentially "become" them, like the " sweet tones of the flute". Lispector uses music imagery to convey the narrators desire to positively have an impact on the reader, though aware he does not exist.
Addressing issues with gender roles in The Hour of the Star is not the primary purpose for the book, but holds some significance in the story. Specifically the reason why the narrator is male. This book itself appears to be an inception of the outside world. Lispector writes about Rodrigo who is writing about Macabea but in turn, Lispector is writing about Macabea's life. It is as if Lispector wants to represent herself, but in order to avoid an autobiographical or diary style, creates a brand new character to reflect her own thoughts about existence and the subject at hand. A subtle hint is presented to remind the reader of who is actually writing the book where Rodrigo explains that the book must be written by a "man for a woman would weep her heart out" (14). The reader is reminded that the actual writer of the book is a woman and therefore we can infer that Lispector was very emotional about this story. But this also establishes a traditional view of women that existed when this book was written.
“Meantime, I want to walk naked or in rags; I want to experience at least once the insipid flavor of the Host” (19)
ReplyDeleteThe host, in Christianity, is frequently used to refer to the communion offering at religious celebrations in many Christian denominations. In Roman Catholicism, this offering is usually a small wafer- like bread, sometimes in a circular shape. Catholics believe that this bread is the body of Jesus Christ, and that eating it allows you to gain a greater spiritual connection with God. I believe Lispector used this allusion because it shows that Rodrigo, despite not really being religious, would like to feel as though he can commune with God. It shows that Rodrigo is sort of an outsider in his society as most Brazilians will have already had many tastes of the Host.
“May the Gods never decree that I should write about a leper, for then I should be covered in leprosy” (39)
Here, Rodrigo alludes to leprosy. Leprosy is a fairly common topic in the Bible, mentioned over 68 times throughout the new and old testament. In the Bible, leprosy refers usually to a skin disease or deformity, and usually has the connotation of being a disease of outcasts. Therefore it is interesting that Lispector used the word here-- Rodrigo feels as though writing about a social outcast like Macabea has made him more of a social outcast himself, so he fears writing about a leper (another type of outcast) lest he become one of those as well.
“They bled a black pig and seven white hens over me and tore my bloodstained clothes to shreds” (70).
This quote seemed to me like an indirect reference to the death of Jesus. The quote here describes a voodoo practice used by Madame Carlota, and Gloria asks if Macabea is courageous enough to face something like that. I believe Lispector used the reference to Jesus here to show that Macabea’s trip to the psychic would lead to her death. It also makes sense because just as Jesus died and was reborn, Rodrigo implies that Macabea’s trip to the psychic had a similar resurrective effect on her.
“Sin tempts me, forbidden pleasures lure me” (70).
This quote seemed to me like a reference to the forbidden fruit of the Bible. In the Bible, Adam and Eve were told that they must avoid the “Forbidden Fruit” in the Garden of Eden. However, a snake convinced Eve to eat the apple, and she shared it with Eve, which was the beginning of all sin on Earth. I believe that this reference to “forbidden pleasure” signifies that Rodrigo is feeling tempted to go away from the current path of his story. He knows what path the story “must” take, but he wants to give in to the temptation of simplifying or easing Macabea’s struggle. This, however, would be a sin as alluded to in this quote.
“Should God descend on earth one day there would be a great silence” (85).
Here, Rodrigo makes reference to the Rapture. The Rapture, in Christianity, is the day on which God will “descend on earth” and judge the living, choosing to send them to either heaven or to hell. In the Bible, it says that this will occur “with the archangel's call and with the sound of God's trumpet” (Thessalonians 4:13-17). However, Rodrigo goes against this notion by claiming that if God ever does come down to Earth, there will only be silence. I believe he did this to claim that even if God himself came down to Earth, humans are so wrapped up in their own lives that they would barely even notice Him, let alone some poor girl from the Northeast of Brazil living a miserable life.
"Who was she asking? God? She didn't think about God, God didn't think about her. God belongs to those who manage to get him" (18).
ReplyDeleteMany religious people believe that God listens to all and gives help to all that need it. In this passage, it says that God didn’t think of her, implying that God didn’t think she was that important to think about, even though God thinks about everyone. This just shows the unimportance that Macabea’s life contains; if she can’t even catch God’s attention, who in the world would pay attention to her?
“The typist lived in a kind of limbo, hovering between heaven and hell” (36).
Limbo is basically the “edge of hell”; one does not fully enter hell, but at the same time they don’t go to heaven either. They don’t experience any punishment but don’t get to experience the joy being with God in heaven. Even though Macabea has done nothing wrong throughout her life, the narrator still says that she dwells in the space between hell and heaven. Rodrigo could be implying that, as humanity left Macabea to suffer, God leaves humanity to suffer.
“-Gosh, it sounds like the name of a disease… A skin disease.
-I agree but it’s the name my mother gave me because of a vow she made to Our Lady of Sorrows if I should survive.” (43)
In this passage, “Our Lady of Sorrows” refers to the Virgin Mary used by Catholic churches. The Virgin Mary has multiple names that all include either: “sorrows”, “piety”, or “dolours”. By using this name and not “Virgin Mary”, the author is indicating how sorrowful Macabea’s life is. By being named after the name of sorrow, indicates how hard of an existence Macabea has, similar to Mary. When her village found out that she was pregnant, they disowned her and disrespected her. This allusion alludes to the suffering Macabea experiences in her existence.
"Olimpico de Jesus Moreira Chaves- he lied, because his real surname was simply Jesus" (44).
When I first read this, I thought that the author was implying that Olimpico was similar to Jesus, since it says that “his surname was simply Jesus”. Jesus showed kindness and love to everyone, even those that didn’t deserve that kind of treatment. But unlike Jesus, Olimpico does not act like that which makes this kind of ironic. He treats Macabea poorly by saying disrespectful things to her and is overall not a very nice person. This makes the reader dislike Olimpico more but also shows that, maybe, Macabea is not supposed to be shown any signs of kindness. The only “friend” she really had in life was her coworker, Gloria, but she didn’t even treat Macabea with respect by having a relationship with Olimpico.
"As I said before, she had no guardian angel" (62).
Guardian angels are said to watch over the humans and protect them from any source of evil. Saying that no guardian angel watches over Macabea implies her isolation in the world. The reader already knows that she lacks any friends or elderly in her life to turn to for help, but she also has no form of religious guidance in the world. This makes the reader pity Macabea a little because she has no one to turn to in desperate times of help and this displays just how lonely she really is in life. But not only does this make the reader pity her, but also show the reader how independent she is. In today’s world, we depend on family members, friends, professors, any elderly person in our life to help us get through the tough reality of life but Macabea has no one to turn to.
The Hour of the Star provides subtle references to the bible. One reference I found was “Everything in the world began with a yes” (11). This is a reference to the creation of the world as said in the book of genesis (the first book in the bible) where God decided to create the universe in almost a simplistic fashion. Lispector imitates this simplicity by claiming the universe began with a “yes” similar to when God said “Let there be…” something. The idea of simplicity of a complex issue is reflected on Lispector's view of existence whereby everything is what it is. But Lispector also acknowledges, that though the message was given simply like in the bible, she “only achieve simplicity with enormous effort” (1). Though God seemingly just created the world, the universe does not reflect the way it was created. Full of stars, physics and other complex processes that us humans have yet to understand.
ReplyDeleteIn Christianity, repentance and sacrifice is a fundamental part of purity. Similarly in Catholicism, there are those who call themselves nuns and priests that must remain virgins all throughout their life. As the author explains how he will create an authentic character he says that “I’ve also given up sex and football.And avoid all human contact. Shall I go back one day to my former life” (22). I believe that this is a reference to the catholic practice of being barred from marrying to remain pure. In the context of the book, Lispector compares nuns and Macabea as being poor, but Macabea is pure in that she fails to recognize her existence. When she fails to recognize her existence, then corrupting thoughts about the meaning to life, which the author confronts in the beginning of the book, will not bother her.
Another biblical reference I found was “She did not know Him, therefore He did not exist”(34). This references the bible where if you may know God but he may not know you. But reverses the position that she does not know God and so he does not exist. The theme that people must know you in order for you to exist prevails in the life of Macabea. Since nobody, not even God knew her then she is completely and utterly alone.
Then there is a reference to the death of Jesus where it says “For at the hour of death you become a celebrated film star…” (28). This references where the pinnacle of Jesus life (without undermining his life of course) is his death because it represents his sacrifice to save people from their sins. Death as being the most important part of your life is seen in the end of the book where people finally paid attention to Macabea right before she is about to die.
Finally, when the author discusses the Sunday events of Macabea, he asks “ Surely one day she will gain a place in the paradise reserved for misfits” (34). I believe that this is a reference to Hell or Heaven though it is unclear on which one the author has in mind. Lispector uses an oxymoron to create a confusing effect. The idea of heaven and hell and how it is phrased as a question reflects the mystery behind the after-life. It also reflects Lispector’s desire for her question to be answered about the destination of people after death and what dictates that path.
“Darkness? I recall a girlfriend: she was experienced and what darkness inside her body. I never forgot her: you never forget the person you slept with. The event remains tattooed with a fiery mark on living flesh and all who glimpse the stigma flee in horror.” (10)
ReplyDelete“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge in the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” (Gal 6:1)
The bible tells a story of spiritual warfare, a fight between the good and the evil. In this case, evil is also regarded as the “flesh” which symbolizes the sinful nature of humans. Rodrigo, the narrator, is referring to his old girlfriend of whom he slept with as sinful and one who is filled with darkness and living with the flesh instead of walking with God. His word choice such as “darkness”, “fiery”, and “horror” also depicts a negative tone, which is opposite compared to Macabea’s perspective on living.
“All this, yes, the story is history. But knowing beforehand so you never forget that the word is the fruit of the word, the word must resemble the word.” (11)
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” (John 1:1)
John, who wrote the book of John, started out his gospel by referring back to the Old Testament when the “Word” was spread by God Himself. This Word was the link between God and humans. But in the New Testament, when the Son of God was placed on earth, he was considered as the Word because He was introducing the people to God. Both the quote and the verse use repetition of the word “Word” to emphasize the importance of this word (lol).
“Then she asked for forgiveness of the abstract Being who gives and takes. She felt forgiven. The Being forgave her for everything.” (57)
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9)
Macabea, who has never really been exposed to sugary treats until Gloria offered them, stole a cookie when Gloria was out of the room. She ended up feeling guilty and asked the “Being” for forgiveness. The narrator can be implying that Macabea was simply asking God for forgiveness but since she does not know God, he replaces His name to “Being” which indicates a higher power.
“Macabea, Hail Mary, full of grace, serene promised land, land of forgiveness, the time must come… Macabea ask for forgiveness? Because one always does. For what? Answer: that’s the way it is because that’s the way it is.” (73)
“Jesus said, ‘Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.’ And they divided up his clothes by casting lots. The people stood watching, and the rulers even sneered at him. They said, ‘He saved others; let him save himself if he is God’s Messiah, the Chosen One.’ The soldiers also came up and mocked him…” (Luke 23:34-36)
While He was alive, Jesus knew of his forthcoming death. Everyone hated him during the day of his crucifixion, throwing rocks and yelling at Him. Even though he was receiving this terrible treatment, He asked God to forgive the people since they did not know why they were doing what they were doing. The quote portrays Macabea as similar to the action of Jesus since no one, except the narrator, loved her, but she still asked for forgiveness. The first line of the quote also depicts a picture of heaven, a serene land, where Macabea is supposed to be. It implies that her death was her destiny, similar to Jesus’ death.
couldn't fit all:
Delete“She sat there leaning her head on her shoulder the way a dove gets sad.” (40) “Pray forgive me this death. Because I couldn’t help it, you accept anything because you’ve kissed the wall. But then all of a sudden I feel my last grimace of revolt and howl: the slaughter of doves!!! Living is luxury.” (76)
“When the dove returned to him in the evening, there in its beak was a freshly plucked olive leaf! Then Noah knew that water had receded from the earth.” (Genesis 8:10)
The story of Noah and his ark includes him sending out a dove after the flood to determine whether land is present. After seven days, the dove hands him an olive branch, signifying that it had found land. Because of this, doves and olive branches are forever regarded as symbols of peace. Throughout the story, the narrator refers to Macabea as a dove to imply that she is a peaceful human being. After her death, Rodrigo uses negative diction with interesting word choices such as “the slaughter of doves”. This can mean that her death has caused a destruction in peace.
During the first half of the book, the narrator does not mention her name and often refers to her as “the girl” or “the northeastern girl”. This implies that she does not have a name worth mentioning due to her impoverish nature. The narrator also writes, “But the person I’m going to be talking about scarcely has a body to sell, nobody wants her, she’s a virgin and harmless, nobody would miss her.” (Lispector 6). The society in which the story takes place in praises women for their body and sexuality (gender roles duh), but Rodrigo is stating that nobody would even want her for her body due to her unattractive appearance. Her life was so sad that the writer even says, “She didn’t know that she herself was a suicide although it had never crossed her mind to kill herself. Because life was more tasteless to her than old bread with no butter.” (50). He is comparing her life to WORSE than old bread without butter because who would want bread without butter.
ReplyDeleteLispector creates the character of Olimpico because a part of his role is to dehumanize her. He says, “There’s no milk in this cow.” (45) which is a metaphor for poverty. Part of a cow’s purpose is to provide milk but Olimpico is stating that Macabea has nothing to offer. He is also comparing her to a cow which is very rude. Then he does on and says, “You, Macabea, are like a hair in the soup. Nobody feels like eating it. Sorry to hurt your feelings, but I’m being honest.” (51). This occurs after he breaks up with her for Gloria and is another example of comparing her life to food.
Gloria, in the story, can be considered as her foil character. She is not the prettiest but she walks with confidence, swaying her hips everywhere, and is fat, implying that she has the privilege to eat whatever she wants, unlike Macabea, who wishes she was as fat as her. The narrator writes, “From her hips you could tell Gloria was made for childbearing. Whereas Macabea seemed to have in herself her own end.” (51). This quote indicates that Macabea does not have the qualifications for giving birth, dehumanizing her since that society probably view women as the caretaker of the house. Gloria then says, “Sorry for asking: does being ugly hurt?” (53). Obviously she’s not sorry for asking because her question ended being the most rude thing ever.
Pg 13 “Unlike the reader, I reserve the right to be devastatingly cold, for this is not simply a narrative, but above all primary life”
ReplyDeletePg 86 “at heart, Macabea was little better than a music box sadly out of tune”
Pg 32 “It must be said that the girl is not conscious of my presence. Were it otherwise, she would have someone to pray for and that would mean salvation.”
Pg 46 “Macabea was undeniably a primitive creature while Olimpico de Jesus saw himself as a man about town”
Pg 26 “She had been born with a legacy of misfortune, a creature from nowhere with the expression of someone who apologizes for occupying too much space”
Pg 23 “As for the girl, she exists in an impersonal limbo, untouched by what is worst or best. She merely exists... Her existence is sparse
In hour of the star, Clarice Lispector regularly uses Rodrigo SM to dehumanize Macabea. It seems that Rodrigo has a very strange “relationship” with Macabea, as some of the time he seems to look upon her with pity or even admiration, however the majority of the time he either regards her neutrally or degrades her as a person. The quotes above are all examples of times in which Rodrigo dehumanizes Macabea or otherwise regards her as lower than himself and others. The reason Lispector does this is to show that, to Rodrigo and most of the rest of the people in the novella, Macabea is “just another poor girl”. Rodrigo also notes that her story is not just a narrative but a “primary life” To me, this means that the story of Macabea is a first hand account of lives that are playing out similarly throughout the urban world. To accomplish this dehumanizing effect, Lispector uses metaphors that both demean Macabea and detach Rodrigo from her experiences. Rodrigo refers to her as a “music box sadly out of tune” and a “primitive creature, both of which make Macabea out to be less than human. This demeaning effect shows how easy it is be indifferent to the poverty and suffering of a girl who you perceive to be less than you. This is paired with a detached tone, as Rodrigo states that “she merely exists” and “the girl is not conscious of my presence”. These statements make it clear that in order to be this cold towards Macabea, Rodrigo must more or less maintain a sort of distance from her. The point of this is to emphasize the fact that large cities create a community in which most of the residents are detached from one another, and thus are able to treat each other with the same cold dehumanization that Rodrigo uses for Macabea.
I have not finished Hour of the Star, but so far this what is I think of the dehumanization:
ReplyDeleteLispector is not dehumanizing, but rather humanizing and vocalizing and making tangible and putting into words exactly what each human soul screams; sometimes silently, sometimes as a loud ravaging rant. It puts into question the eternal disturber of truth and happiness, complacency and the acquittal of bottomless searching: the questioning of our purpose, is it suffering?, is it searching?, is it the blind recognition and admittance of a cold universe?, void of true knowledge?
By “dehumanizing” Macabea, Rodrigo (who is really just a mouthpiece for Lispector) is able to describe all these things that are too fearful to place on a regular, (seemingly) happy human. Perhaps because she is blind to her suffering, unknowing, or in a better description, accepting of her suffering.
(But this is just incomprehensible for us! We, at least I, cannot understand how such a human can develop and descend so far below… or perhaps we are all below, we are just not aware, and she has come to be comfortable down here)
But this is not just Macabea’s suffering because she is ugly and lives a pathetic life in chains and in poverty, it is the sufferings of each human being, because of the essence in being human, and coming to the realization and questioning of your entire existence.
Perhaps the reason the narrator is afraid to define and describe Macabea, is because he is afraid to confront his existence, and that question which the novel circulates around. He spends umpting amounts of pages blabbering on about how he is distraught with her existence and has come to question his entire race and is ravaging his soul in an attempt to explain it. I get it. But maybe, more simply, he is afraid, and so he avoids directly describing her. But when he does, he does not lie and water it down in any degree:
“She had been born with a legacy of misfortune, a creature from nowhere with the expression of someone who apologizes for occupying too much space.” (26)
Macabea has an entire conscious that is an entire sub-level below everyone else, and she realizes this. But does she really? Or is Macabea the most genuinely genius and enlightened one of the book?
“She didn’t know that she herself was a suicide although it had never crossed her mind to kill herself. Because life was more tasteless to her than old bread with no butter.” (50).
This is the opinion of Rodrigo: that she is a suicide. ( a noun) Because her life is so terrible and the world seems so pitiless: it is a Hell, death would be inviting, a silence, a satisfaction and rest.
“As for the girl, she exists in an impersonal limbo, untouched by what is worst or best. She merely exists... Her existence is sparse.” (23)
Macabea is a wayfarer of the human existence. She is so far off from the ideal, the ideal that is created but the success of those who are believed to have conquered their eternal enemy, so far from what is desired, she resides in that space, completely alone.
I think the reason why Lispector dehumanizes Macabea through Rodrigo’s harsh comments about her is to show readers the sad, cold hard truth about the real urban world. Most middle-class and upper-class citizens don’t take the time to consider how the lower-class citizens are able to live in this world. They’re mostly concerned about trying to stay in style and are worrying about themselves. Most don’t even know the hardship that lower-class citizens go through trying to be able to eat, be clothed, and have a roof over their heads. But not only is Lispector trying to let the reader know of the hardships of what it is to be poor but also she is kind of dehumanizing the other citizens in this book. No one really seems to pay attention to Macabea, just like how most citizens don’t tend to pay attention to the homeless or needy in the real world. By doing this, Lispector is showing the reader, truly, how cruel the world can be towards others. I think the reason why Lispector is trying to show the reader how cruel reality actually is to teach everyone a lesson. There are many people out there in the world, suffering, while the rest of us live in luxury and happiness.
ReplyDeleteThroughout The Hour of the Star, Clarice Lispector includes many instances of her character Rodrigo referring to Macabéa as an object or something other than human. He frequently calls her as an object to emphasize the fact that she is poor and worthless, something Clarice Lispector is trying to bring to light in her novel. She lived in Brazil through her life, and she’s sharing with her readers the poor lives of women in Río so that we’ll be more aware of what some people’s lives are like. One instance of dehumanization in the novel is as follows: “She didn’t even realize she lived in a technical society in which she was a dispensable cog” (21). In direction relation to the urban world, this quote shows how people in society are simply parts of a machine. It suggests that people, such as Macabéa, can be easily replaced by another that functions better. Another dehumanization: “And, if she thought about it, she might say she sprouted from the soil of the Alagoas blacklands like an instantly molded mushroom” 21). This suggests that Macabéa was worthless right from her birth. She was “instantly molded” and already born a fungus, unwanted in society. It’s interesting how the author doesn’t bother to give Macabéa any redeeming qualities – why is she described as such a depraved character? The next dehumanization: “Because she lacked fat and her body was drier than a half-empty sack of crumbled toast” (30). This dehumanization compares the girl to something unwanted, a dry, half piece of crumbled toast. Next, “You, Macabéa, are like a hair in the soup. Nobody feels like eating it” (51). This quote shows Macabéa as out of place – similar to her place in society. She doesn’t seem like she belongs in the world, because she has nothing to give back to it. Later, “Her vagina was the only vehement sign of her existence” (70). This statement gives more value to her vagina than to her own personality… how cruel! “Macabéa was nothing but a vague sentiment lying on the dirty paving stones” (83). This final example of dehumanization indicates that Macabéa is so insignificant that she can’t be seen even amongst the many other insignificant people. She’s a speck of dust with the cluster of dust. Also relating to society, there are so many people in poverty and in the same position as Macabéa, that we don’t distinguish between them. We clump them all together and define that group of people as just “poor.” Nothing more.
ReplyDelete“The girl didn't know she existed, just as a dog doesn’t know that it’s a dog” (27)
ReplyDelete”And since I have discovered almost everything about her, she has clung to my skin like some viscous glue or contaminating mud” (21)
"She wasn't even aware that she lived in a technological society where she was a mere cog in the machine" (29)
"... her vagina was the only vehement sign of her existence" (70)
"[Macabea] Like a hen with its neck half-severed, running about in a panic and dripping blood" (80)
"Dying, Macabea became air" (85)
In these instances of Lispector dehumanizing Macabea, she is compared to unwanted objects or disgusting things showing her little significance in society. As cruel as this sounds, in the urban world, full of people who are ignored, this is true to those who are poor. That is why Lispector has the need to write about her as I discussed in earlier blogs. In one of the quotes, Macabea's only significant sign of existence is her "vagina" (70). In all urban cultures, prostitution is part of the modern setting. Since Macabea only existence is based on vagina, it shows how the only way she can bring herself into existence is through prostitution. But because she has "shown no signs of becoming a prostitute" so her existence is obsolete (28). Another aspect of urban population is the constant need for progression and the workforce required to feed this. Because Macabea is not exactly the most productive or contributing member of society, she is compared to a "cog" in a technological world. We value ourselves in being able to be self productive and efficient, unlike Macabea who relies on her aunt for shelter. She is like "air" that exists but is not visible to the naked eye and therefore does not really exist. Only at her death is she finally a star since the pinnacle of life is death after all. Right? Because of all these dehumanizing effects, Lispector feels the need to write about her like "contaminating mud" unto her skin. Essentially, her existence is forced into Lispector's thoughts as she recalls her memories of her own when she visited the city. Lispector has witnessed the poverty in Rio and probably had the thousands of poor girls in her mind as he wrote about Macabea
One example of Hour of the Star being an experimental novel is that there is no clear protagonist. In most novels, there is a clear conflict between two forces, sometimes a person and their own self, but often some form of good versus evil conflict. In The Hour of the Star, this conflict is not well defined. By proxy, it is difficult to tell who the protagonist is because we don’t really know who the story is about-- Rodrigo and his journey to determine the various truths and miseries that go along with Macabea’s life, or Macabea struggling to survive in a world that is cold and ignorant towards her struggles. I believe Lispector used this unclearness to emphasize the fact that in the real world, there very rarely are true protagonists-- everyone is a protagonist in his or her own life but to the rest of the world they are far less defined.
ReplyDeleteAnother example of how the novel is experimental is that it deals with intensely internal and psychological or philosophical questions. These questions motivate the narrator and his characters. Rodrigo often poses these questions directly to the audience, for example when Lispector writes, “But who am I to censure the guilty? The worst part is that I must forgive them” (81). This is a great example of Rodrigo asking a philosophical question that guides his narrative perspective. As Rodrigo struggles to answer these questions, we often see them shape his writing in the form of breaks from the narrative to discuss the questions. We also see these questions take a toll on Rodrigo as he makes himself out to be in quite a state of distress. Lispector likely included these questions to make the reader think harder about these questions and prove that there is no easy or universal answer to them
Another way Hour of the Star is an Experimental Novel is that it utilizes a stream of consciousness form of narration. The narration in the novel seems like an uninterrupted flow of thoughts from the narrator-- we even hear from him what he does outside of his writing, like growing a beard and taking rests, in his writing. This connects the reader better to Rodrigo which is extremely important in this novel because the novel centers around the philosophical questions he asks- by giving the reader a more intimate knowledge of Rodrigo, Lispector allows the reader to engage more with his musings.
The last reason that Hour of the Star fits the mold of an experimental novel is that it focuses solely on the ordinary, and is dedicated to not making it out to be more than it actually is. Rodrigo notes that “I have no intention of adorning the word, for were I to touch the girl’s bread, that bread would turn to gold” (15). He claims that to even use a big, fancy vocabulary would be to turn Macabea’s life into something more than the sad (or happy, depending one one’s viewpoint) but ordinary tale that it really is. There is no happy ending to the novel, nor does Macabea reach any sort of pinnacle other than her inevitable death. This makes the novel truly a tale of an ordinary person living a miserable life-- something few other novels dare to expose, thus making this a very different kind of novel.
The Hour of the Star can be considered an Experimental Novel by the character Rodrigo, as he shows the characteristics of the description in the prompt. He has an internal conflict in himself and questions various aspects of life in his vast psychological world, he contradicts himself frequently, and he is motivated by something unknown to him. The “antihero” mentioned in the description may seem like it refers to Macabéa for her “ordinariness,” but Rodrigo is just as ordinary in his world, as a secluded writer who strays from social encounter.
ReplyDeleteRodrigo contradicts himself throughout the introduction of the book, and these examples remain a clear indication that this novel is Experimental. He begins, “I know splendid adjectives, meaty nouns, and verbs so slender that they travel sharp through the air about to go into actions, since words are actions” (7). Just a page later, he writes “Words are sounds transfused with unequal shadows” (8) and later says, “Could it really be that the action is beyond the word?” (9). Just here, Rodrigo contradicts himself three times within three pages. Words cannot be actions and sounds at the same time - and actions can also not be beyond the word, if the action IS the word. This is an example of irrationality, rooted from the character’s psychological conflict and further defines this book as an Experimental Novel.
Rodrigo also begins the novel with various questions of the world, a characteristic of an Experimental Novel. He says, “As long as I have questions and no answers I’ll keep writing” (1). “How do you start at the beginning if things happen before they happen?” (1). Here, he displays his need to find answers, and his inability to do so. He frequently questions things about the world and shows the depth of his curiosity, something an Experiment Novel has in its character.
Finally, Rodrigo presents his motivations for writing his book without a clear explanation - as if he doesn’t know why he’s writing. This is also seen through the way he writes, in a stream of consciousness narration style. These two ways relate to the description that “he is motivated by deep unconscious sources of his nature.” He doesn’t know why he’s writing, but he knows he must do it. He says, “I am forced to seek the truth that transcends me” (20). Here, he indicates that he knows he cannot reach truth, but recognizes that it’s his duty to seek it out. This is a characteristic of an Experimental Novel, and Rodrigo, as the antihero, expresses this to the readers.
The Hour of the Star can be considered an Experimental Novel by the character Rodrigo, as he shows the characteristics of the description in the prompt. He has an internal conflict in himself and questions various aspects of life in his vast psychological world, he contradicts himself frequently, and he is motivated by something unknown to him. The “antihero” mentioned in the description may seem like it refers to Macabéa for her “ordinariness,” but Rodrigo is just as ordinary in his world, as a secluded writer who strays from social encounter.
ReplyDeleteRodrigo contradicts himself throughout the introduction of the book, and these examples remain a clear indication that this novel is Experimental. He begins, “I know splendid adjectives, meaty nouns, and verbs so slender that they travel sharp through the air about to go into actions, since words are actions” (7). Just a page later, he writes “Words are sounds transfused with unequal shadows” (8) and later says, “Could it really be that the action is beyond the word?” (9). Just here, Rodrigo contradicts himself three times within three pages. Words cannot be actions and sounds at the same time - and actions can also not be beyond the word, if the action IS the word. This is an example of irrationality, rooted from the character’s psychological conflict and further defines this book as an Experimental Novel.
Rodrigo also begins the novel with various questions of the world, a characteristic of an Experimental Novel. He says, “As long as I have questions and no answers I’ll keep writing” (1). “How do you start at the beginning if things happen before they happen?” (1). Here, he displays his need to find answers, and his inability to do so. He frequently questions things about the world and shows the depth of his curiosity, something an Experiment Novel has in its character.
Finally, Rodrigo presents his motivations for writing his book without a clear explanation - as if he doesn’t know why he’s writing. This is also seen through the way he writes, in a stream of consciousness narration style. These two ways relate to the description that “he is motivated by deep unconscious sources of his nature.” He doesn’t know why he’s writing, but he knows he must do it. He says, “I am forced to seek the truth that transcends me” (20). Here, he indicates that he knows he cannot reach truth, but recognizes that it’s his duty to seek it out. This is a characteristic of an Experimental Novel, and Rodrigo, as the antihero, expresses this to the readers.
Antihero, mostly regarded as the protagonist of the story, lack many “heroic qualities” and obtain a simple and ordinary lifestyle. Due to Rodrigo’s, the narrator of The Hour of the Star, unreliability, his use of stream of consciousness, syntax, and the overall structure of the novel, the book can be classified as an experimental novel. Although Rodrigo may seem like a simple man, his outlook on life--for example, the pre-prehistory or the effects of writing--have created a complicated and warped tone for the story.
ReplyDeleteContradiction is prevalent throughout the plot as it progresses. In the beginning, Rodrigo would talk down on Macabea, stating that she is unworthy and unattractive. But then he claims, “She didn’t have that delicate thing called charm. I’m the only one who finds her charming. Only I, her author, love her. I suffer for her.” (19). He also mentions, “So I have to speak simply to capture her delicate and vague existence” (7), but continues to confuse his readers with his extravagant vocabulary and disorganized structure. This shows the unreliability of the human mind and how often it is distorted. The use of stream of consciousness sets a tone of uncertainty since it provides a continuous flow of the narrator’s thoughts and feelings. He compares the structure of the story as having “no technique, nor style, it lives from hand to mouth.” (28). Many times he would go off topic from telling the story of Macabea and includes his perspective on life and how the character he had created affected him. There are also many music references throughout the novel, For example, he claims, “this story lacks a cantabile melody. Its rhythm is sometimes discordant.” (8) which is referring to twelve-tone method of music mentioned in Author’s Dedication. The twelve-tone music refers to the lack of harmony and using every note on the scale equally. Incorporating the comparison of music may show the inequality found in society and how the characters in the novel treat Macabea differently. It can also shadow Macabea’s lifestyle since there are many instances where Rodrigo mentions that she is living aimlessly.
3) I believe that Macabea was as happy as she could be in her situation. She realized she had limited benefits and experience, and that she wasn't the most beautiful or intelligent. However, she was able to find beauty and pleasure within the simple things, and this shows pure acceptance of fate. Therefore, it would be wrong to feel sorry for one who is happy, because an important and successful part of life is finding one's happiness. We can't feel sorry for someone who is happy, because then we fail as individuals to grasp the concept of satisfaction. In some eyes she is pitiful because she does not realize she lacks nice things, but it is again pointless to feel sorry for someone who themselves do not feel sorry.
ReplyDelete8) Dying a virgin, in Macabea's case, might represent the pity Rodrigo felt for her when writing the story. She lacked so much experience in life, that her dying a virgin adds to the annoyance felt by the audience that she didn't get to live out a full life. Another way of looking at it is to compare her death to the death of an angel; she died pure and innocent, and this adds beauty to Macabea that many readers are unable to see. Lastly, her death can be symbolic of tragedy, which connects to the overarching problem of poverty in Brazil, particularly Rio.
17) What is the significance of Rodrigo throughout the story? Is he there to provide another perspective throughout the story, does he act as an antagonist, or is he a voice of existentialism? Why didn't Lispector narrate the story herself? Why the importance of choosing Macabea as the protagonist of the story?
At the beginning of the third section the narrator finally introduces himself as Rodrigo S.M. Not only is this the first time we hear his name, it is the only time! In addition, the narrator never actually met Macabea. The reader must question if anything Rodrigo says about Macabea is true. For example, if Macabea is even her real name. Another reason that suggests that Rodrigo may not be the most reliable narrator is that he practically says he does not even care about Macabea. He writes, “It is true that I, too, feel no pity for my main character, the girl from the North- East” (13). If he is saying he cares just as little about Macabea as everyone else why is he going to tell us her story? He says he is writing to make the reader aware of a problem that a large group of girls are struggling from the affects of poverty, just like Macabea. However, I am not sure how he could be concerned about the well being of the group as a whole, while not caring about Macabea. Rodrigo displays his arrogance as he writes, “I am warming up before making a start, rubbing my hands together to summon up my courage” (14). In addition to this sentence, he goes on for ever explaining why he is going to tell the story and apologizing for telling it, rather than simply telling the story. It is obvious that the narrator takes himself very seriously and believes that the story he is about to tell is very important.
ReplyDelete