Kosinski's novel Blind Date represents a patriarchal world where the rules are different for men and women. The system subordinates the female, and the notion of equality is abstract. The protagonist, Levanter, leads a life devoid of meaningful relationships. The female characters lack depth and introspection. They are mere instruments used to define male virility. Sexual acts are brutal and humiliating. The protagonist experiences a sense of exhilaration by exercising his power over the lives of others.
The author's phallocentric vision of the world is evident in his novel. His unfulfilled hero places emphasis on personal gratification. He uses sex and intimacy as a weapon in the battle for dominance. Kosinski’s novel includes graphic details of sadistic scenes and a series of predatory encounters. He inhabits a world where rape and murder go unpunished.
The title Blind Date itself is a euphemism for rape. Oscar, a rapist, believes that the act is necessary for a male to relieve himself of the pressure to procreate. Another example is the sexual encounter of Levanter and Jolene. It shows a complete disregard for the emotional aspect of the experience. What drives the characters is lust.
Thursday, January 15, 2015
The title of this course session is “The Rules Are Gendered.” Select “Blind Date” and discuss how you see it in light of the idea of the rules being different for men and women. What do you notice? How might that impact the choices you see the author making? Give two specific examples to support your assertions.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
What is the theme of the chapter Lead?
Primo Levi's complex probing of the Holocaust, including his survival of Auschwitz and pre- and post-war life, is organized around indiv...
-
It seems most likely you are asking about Michael Halliday's theories of language. He argues children have seven main functions they use...
-
Note that these events are not in chronological order. The story is told by the narrator, looking back upon her life. The first notable even...
-
In Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, Harry has his first lesson in chapter eight of the book. While Harry has many other classes before...
-
A Dog’s Purpose is a 32 chapter novel narrated from the perspective of a dog who is repeatedly reincarnated, with his ultimate goal of disco...
-
Auggie’s first day of school is rough, but it could certainly have been worse. When he gets to school, he attempts to maintain a low profile...
-
Meg Meg is the central character in the novel, and we see the action through her eyes. She is important to the novel because she, along with...
-
Pluralism implies that different communities and cultures that enter a foreign one will hold on to their culture and traditions. This will l...
No comments:
Post a Comment