JOYCE CAROL OATES’ PURSUIT OR FIGHTING ONE’S GARDEN-VARIETY (?) DEMONS
JOYCE CAROL OATES’ PURSUIT OR FIGHTING ONE’S GARDEN-VARIETY (?) DEMONS

Summary/Abstract: This paper follows the way in which the characters, especially the protagonist in Joyce Carol Oates’ novel Pursuit struggle with their traumas, fears and insecurities, as the writing in question detaches itself as a psychological suspense thriller in which this aspect is brought to the fore. We have called these evils demons (using a commonly used metaphor for them), of the “garden-variety” i.e. ordinary type (leaving some doubt here nevertheless, with the question mark), because most of them are forms of terror with which a vast majority of people can identify as having to a greater or lesser extent. The paper starts from the analysis of Miriam’s nightmares and coma, which are treated as spaces of terror, then studies the other demons tormenting the characters, in separate sections: low self-esteem, abuse, (im)propriety and misogyny. The writer’s treatment of the showcases can enhance people’s awareness of these inner horrors and suggest potential remedies. The approach is identity studies, with a core of psychoanalysis and gender concerns.

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