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Moi Institute of Technology, Rongo *

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2013

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Arts Humanities

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Nov 24, 2024

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Essay 1 The Consuming Metropolis: Ling Ma's "Severance" and the Critique of Consumerism In Ling Ma's novel "Severance," the bustling backdrop of a city becomes a microcosm for the intricate tapestry of consumerism. The protagonist, Candace Chen, navigates a world where the act of living is intertwined with ceaseless consumption. Ma's exploration of consumerism extends beyond mere economic transactions; it delves into the very fabric of urban existence. This essay will unravel the representation of consumerism in "Severance," examining how the novel critiques the act of consumption as an integral aspect of city life. The opening quote encapsulates the symbiotic relationship between city life and consumption. Living in a city is not merely a physical presence; it is an engagement with the myriad offerings the city provides. Candace's routine, marked by eating at restaurants, drinking at bars, and shopping at stores, mirrors the routine of countless urban dwellers. The inclusion of paying sales taxes and giving to the homeless emphasizes the all-encompassing nature of this consumption, from the mundane to the altruistic. The city, as portrayed in "Severance," becomes a colossal marketplace, and its inhabitants, unwitting participants in a perpetual cycle of giving and taking. The act of consumption extends beyond the tangible products acquired; it becomes a form of cultural participation, a way of asserting one's presence in the urban landscape. Ma transforms consumerism into a ritualistic aspect of daily life, shaping the characters' identities and influencing their interactions. Candace's routine becomes a liturgy, and the city itself functions as a grand cathedral of consumption. The repetition of actions – eating, drinking, shopping – takes on a ceremonial quality, blurring the line between necessity and ritual. Through this lens, consumerism is not merely an economic system but a set of practices that define and

reinforce urban identities. The act of "giving a dollar to its homeless" introduces an ethical dimension to consumption. It emphasizes the moral choices embedded in the act of giving, turning charity into a consumable gesture. The homeless, like the city's products, become part of the urban landscape, their presence integral to the city's identity. In this way, "Severance" questions not only what is consumed but also the ethical implications of such consumption. In "Severance," consumerism is intrinsically linked to identity formation. The products one consumes, the places one frequents, and the way one contributes to the urban ecosystem become markers of identity. Candace's identity is woven into the fabric of the city she inhabits, and her choices reflect the larger societal norms ingrained in consumer culture. The novel underscores how consumerism shapes not only individual identities but also collective consciousness. The characters' shared experiences of consumption create a shared cultural identity, blurring the lines between personal and communal existence. In "Severance," Ling Ma crafts a narrative that not only depicts the act of consumption but also dissects its multifaceted nature in the urban milieu. Consumerism becomes a ritual, a distraction, a facet of identity, and ultimately, a fragile construct when confronted with existential challenges. Ma's critique extends beyond the economic implications of consumption, delving into the ethical, cultural, and existential dimensions of a society driven by its insatiable desire for more. "Severance" prompts readers to reconsider their relationship with the consuming city and the profound impact of this relationship on individual and collective identities. As the novel navigates the intersection of consumerism and the apocalypse, it invites a reflection on the enduring questions of what truly sustains us and what remains when the allure of consumption fades away.

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Essay 2 Postcolonial Love Song: Natalie Diaz's Poetic Journey Natalie Diaz, a luminary in contemporary poetry, takes readers on a profound journey through the complex intersections of love and postcolonial identity in her 2020 collection, "Postcolonial Love Song." Diaz's poetic exploration is not just an artistic endeavor; it is a socio- cultural excavation, delving into the layers of cultural heritage and linguistic expression. This essay seeks to unravel the intricacies of Diaz's work, examining how she navigates the challenges of love in a postcolonial world, utilizes language to express love and reclaim cultural heritage, and confronts the impact of colonization on identity. Diaz's poems explicitly delve into the fusion of love and postcolonial identity. In doing so, she skillfully unravels the challenges and nuances inherent in the postcolonial experience. One poignant example is the “From the Desire Field”, where Diaz weaves a narrative that transcends personal narratives and becomes emblematic of a broader struggle for love in the aftermath of colonization. Through her verses, Diaz articulates the complexities of forging connections in a world marked by historical trauma, exploring how love becomes both a refuge and a battleground for those navigating postcolonial landscapes. Diaz's engagement with language emerges as a central theme, serving as a powerful tool for expressing love and reclaiming cultural heritage. In her poems, language is not merely a medium of communication; it becomes a site of resistance and resilience. Diaz grapples with the tension between English, the colonial language, and indigenous languages. In poems like “From the Desire Field,” she explores the nuances of linguistic expression, using words as a means of asserting identity in the face of cultural erasure. The tension between languages becomes a metaphor for the broader struggle to reconcile a fractured cultural heritage.

The impact of colonization on personal and collective identity is a recurrent motif in Diaz's poetry. She skillfully unpacks the layers of historical trauma, examining how the colonial legacy continues to shape individual and communal identities. Diaz confronts the ghosts of colonization, exposing the wounds inflicted on the psyche of a people. Through her verses, she challenges colonial narratives and reclaims agency, offering a poetic resistance to the dominant historical discourse. Diaz's exploration of identity becomes a form of decolonization—a rewriting of history through the lens of those who have long been marginalized. Natalie Diaz's "Postcolonial Love Song" emerges as a literary masterpiece that transcends the boundaries of conventional poetry. Through her exploration of love and postcolonial identity, Diaz creates a tapestry of emotions and experiences that resonate beyond the pages of her collection. The nuanced analysis of love in the postcolonial context, the utilization of language as a tool for cultural reclamation, and the bold confrontation of colonization's impact on identity collectively contribute to the richness of Diaz's work. In "Postcolonial Love Song," Diaz not only shares her poetic vision but also invites readers to participate in a collective reimagining of love, language, and identity in a world marked by the legacies of colonialism. Her contribution to discussions on postcolonial literature and identity is not only significant but also essential for fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities inherent in the postcolonial experience.

Essay 3 Unveiling the Layers of Faith: Religious Satire and Nuanced Exploration in Flannery O'Connor's "Wise Blood" Flannery O'Connor, a master of Southern Gothic literature, weaves a tapestry of religious satire, dark humor, and irony in her novel "Wise Blood." In this exploration, we delve into the characters and symbols that embody O'Connor's critique of religious hypocrisy and her nuanced examination of faith. O'Connor's characters serve as vessels for her incisive religious satire. Take, for instance, Hazel Motes, a protagonist whose journey becomes a darkly comic exploration of faith. Motes, a preacher who starts the "Church Without Christ," becomes a living paradox. His attempt to reject conventional religious structures by establishing a church devoid of Christ becomes an ironic commentary on the inherent contradictions in organized religion. O'Connor utilizes irony and humor to portray Motes' struggle with faith, turning his quest into a satirical mirror reflecting the complexities of religious conviction. Similarly, Asa Hawks, a blind street preacher, embodies O'Connor's religious satire. Despite his lack of physical sight, Hawks claims to possess spiritual insight. O'Connor skillfully employs irony in portraying Hawks' reliance on his daughter for guidance, highlighting the dissonance between professed faith and lived reality. Through these characters, O'Connor satirizes the absurdities of religious posturing, revealing the incongruities that often lie beneath the surface of professed piety. O'Connor enriches the narrative with potent symbols that deepen the exploration of religious satire. The "Church Without Christ" symbolizes Motes' desperate attempt to disconnect from traditional religious institutions. This symbol, laced with irony, underscores the impossibility of divorcing faith from its cultural and historical roots. The "Church of Truth

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Without Jesus Christ Crucified" introduces a paradoxical space where truth is divorced from the central figure of Christian belief. O'Connor's use of symbols transcends mere allegory, inviting readers to grapple with the implications of faith divorced from its foundational elements. The heart of O'Connor's exploration lies in the intricacies of faith depicted in the novel. The characters' struggles with belief, doubt, and the search for meaning unfold against the backdrop of a society grappling with shifting values. Motes, in his vehement rejection of conventional faith, inadvertently engages in a profound exploration of spirituality. O'Connor challenges readers to confront the messiness of faith, portraying it not as a linear journey but as a tumultuous, contradictory process. The novel's title, "Wise Blood," encapsulates the paradoxical nature of faith. The term implies a wisdom that transcends rational understanding, suggesting an innate, instinctive connection to the divine. O'Connor's characters, however, grapple with a wisdom that eludes them, revealing the elusive nature of true understanding in matters of faith. In concluding our exploration of "Wise Blood," we recognize Flannery O'Connor's masterful use of religious satire and nuanced examination of faith. Through characters like Hazel Motes and Asa Hawks, O'Connor unveils the absurdities and contradictions embedded in religious posturing. The symbolism, particularly in the creation of unconventional churches, adds layers to the narrative, prompting readers to reflect on the inextricable link between faith and tradition. Ultimately, O'Connor contributes to discussions about the nature of faith and religious institutions by presenting a complex, multi-faceted portrayal that transcends simplistic categorizations. "Wise Blood" remains a literary testament to the intricate dance between belief and doubt, challenging readers to navigate the labyrinthine corridors of faith in a world marked by uncertainty.

Essay 4 Their Eyes Were Watching God: The Power of Nature and Symbolism in Janie's Journey of Self-Discovery and Empowerment Zora Neale Hurston's "Their Eyes Were Watching God" stands as a seminal work in American literature, capturing the essence of the Harlem Renaissance and offering a profound exploration of the African American experience. In this novel, Hurston employs the powerful tools of nature and symbolism to navigate Janie Crawford's journey of self-discovery and empowerment. This essay will delve into the significance of nature as a symbol, the role of symbolism in Janie's relationships, and how these elements contribute to Janie's empowerment. Hurston intricately weaves the natural world into Janie's narrative, employing recurring motifs that serve as metaphors for Janie's aspirations and desires. The horizon, a recurring symbol throughout the novel, becomes a visual representation of Janie's dreams. Just as the horizon remains distant and unattainable, so do Janie's aspirations for a fulfilling life. The pear tree, another significant element, symbolizes Janie's yearning for love and emotional connection. Hurston uses nature not merely as a backdrop but as a language to articulate Janie's innermost feelings. In the opening scenes of the novel, Janie returns to Eatonville dressed in overalls, creating a stir among the townspeople. The horizon becomes a point of discussion, representing Janie's departure from societal norms. As the novel progresses, the horizon evolves from a distant dream to a tangible goal, mirroring Janie's growing sense of self and agency. Hurston skillfully embeds symbolism in Janie's relationships, illuminating the complexities of love and personal growth. Janie's marriages to Logan Killicks, Joe Starks, and Tea Cake serve as stages in her journey, each marked by distinct symbols. Logan, representative of traditional expectations, is associated with the drudgery of the mule and the stifling confines

of a loveless marriage. Joe Starks, on the other hand, embodies ambition and power. His symbol is the town itself, with Joe as its mayor, and the store representing his dominance. However, the store's white porch becomes a symbol of his control and Janie's suppression. In contrast, Tea Cake introduces Janie to a different kind of love, represented by the horizon. Tea Cake's association with nature, as seen in their experiences in the Everglades, symbolizes a relationship rooted in freedom and equality. The symbols interwoven into Janie's narrative contribute significantly to her empowerment. Janie's interactions with these symbols mirror her journey towards self-discovery and agency. The pear tree, initially a symbol of yearning, transforms into a source of strength for Janie as she asserts her independence. In Tea Cake, Janie finds a partner who understands her desire for love and freedom. The horizon, once a distant dream, becomes an integral part of their shared experiences. Through Tea Cake, Janie discovers a love that is not confined by societal expectations, allowing her to redefine herself and break free from the constraints imposed by her previous marriages. Zora Neale Hurston's use of nature and symbolism in "Their Eyes Were Watching God" serves as a masterful exploration of Janie Crawford's journey of self-discovery and empowerment. The symbolism of the horizon, pear tree, and other elements mirrors Janie's aspirations and desires, while also shaping her relationships and contributing to her empowerment. Hurston's novel stands as a timeless testament to the enduring impact of literature in portraying the complexities of the human experience, particularly the quest for identity and agency. Through the lens of Janie's narrative, readers are invited to reflect on their own journeys, aspirations, and the symbols that shape their understanding of self and others.

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