In Search of Itself – The Role of Words in Gestures by Ignacy Karpowicz and Dany Laferrière’s Down Among the Dead Men Cover Image

Zapisać świat, by odnaleźć siebie…, czyli o roli słowa w Gestach Ignacego Karpowicza oraz Kraju bez kapelusza Dany’ego Laferrière’a
In Search of Itself – The Role of Words in Gestures by Ignacy Karpowicz and Dany Laferrière’s Down Among the Dead Men

Author(s): Natalia Kotarba-Nicijewska
Subject(s): Language and Literature Studies, Studies of Literature, Comparative Study of Literature, Polish Literature
Published by: Wydawnictwo Naukowe Uniwersytetu Szczecińskiego
Keywords: comparative literature; Ignacy Karpowicz; Gestures; Dany Laferrière; Down Among the Dead Men; word; gesture;identity

Summary/Abstract: The main goal of this article is to reveal the position of the word in the structures and plots of two contemporary novels: Gestures by Ignacy Karpowicz and Dany Lafferrières’ Down Among the Dead Men. The author seeks to understand a phenomenon of words in those novels both as elements of construction (or instruments of expression) and as artefacts with their own integrating power. The comparative analysis shows specific features of homecoming and its impact on rediscovering oneself. For Karpowicz’s hero a return creates an opportunity to reflect on himself and to write a story about his emotions. For Lafferrière’s hero, a similar experience is also a chance to rebuild his personal myth through a specific kind of narration based on a primitive art style. Despite the differences, which are also analyzed, the return to their homes becomes an opportunity to rebuild their own identity and personality for both heroes.

  • Issue Year: 2016
  • Issue No: 7
  • Page Range: 199-216
  • Page Count: 18
  • Language: Polish