“There is a silence that cannot speak. There is a silence that will not speak.” (Kogawa Prologue). Silence is a foundation of the novel Obasan, shielding characters from their own emotions.The silence is both physical and emotional. Naomi hides from her past by repressing the feelings and memories she has within herself. Her emotions appear to be opaque to both the reader and herself. Her silence originates from her childhood trauma, as well as encouragement from relatives to remain quiet. She struggles to accept the events which shaped and destroyed her life. Naomi seems torn between her interest in the past and her idea that remembering the past will harm her. She slowly comes to terms with the past, gradually revealing what happened.
No comments:
Post a Comment