"A chorus of voices" (Joyce 28).
Music, particularly that of song, is very recurrent in in James Joyce's The Dead. Metaphors such as the above can be found practically on every other page, with at least an indirect mentioning of singing among all the singer heard during the party. This harmony, the serenity and organized atmosphere, is in contrast with Gabriel's hectic position at the gathering, him perhaps having a rather awkward time there interacting with other guests and the hostesses.
As both a symbol and a metaphor, the music and musical references may stand as vehicles for the concept of comfort and skill in the social environment. The figurative language goes as far as to mention a famous tenor to mention a literary tenor. Those with musical talent (or at least showcased it, be it via actual performance or through metaphor) lack the social anxiety that Gabriel feels. Harmony and melody is the measure of social standing.
No comments:
Post a Comment