I highly enjoyed House of Leaves. It had a plot that moved like a classical novel, but then the use of citation, typography, and codes created more challenges for the reader. I liked being called to participate by the author through deciphering, following footnotes, and following different patterns of words. Though I found the process of getting through the novel exciting, I was a bit deflated by the ending of the novel. It seemed to end quite suddenly. Regarding the Navidson aspect of the novel, I like how Will Navidson comes out of the experience physically deformed. I feel that the experience was so life-changing that the physical remnants solidify just how impacting the experience was for both individuals.
I was reading one of the prior blogs and found some of the insights about Pelafina writing the book from the mental institution really interesting. I hadn't put the pieces together in such a way...I suppose I was more focused on the actual plot information, moreso than the source of narration. I like how the book ends ambiguously...it would be insightful to discuss this ambiguity in a class setting. I would highly recommend the book for a class. The novel is rich with references to literature, mythology, and criticism. The story is moving and suspenseful, which makes it more enjoyable for the student. Also, there are so many possibilities of meanings within the relationships of characters, occurances, and narration that would make for lively discourse.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1) Does Johnny Truant actually come in contact with Gdansk Man and his girlfriend again? (Does he kill them?...this part was really confusing for me)
2)What does the skin condition on Will Navidson represent? It goes away after the experience...
3)Does Johnny ever make it to the house?
Monday, February 16, 2009
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The idea came from the reading of her letters as well as a question which someone who posted earlier brought up. But there is an excellent quote on page 543 starting with "perhaps in the margins of darkness, I could create a son who is not missing." This quote gives insight to her mind beginning the process of creating a story to rectify her son’s death. If you think about it, wouldn’t it explain some of the unanswered questions? For example why was Johnny so bipolar? The answer would be because his mother, who was writing the book, is bipolar as well so she exhibited those characteristics in her son. Another question which I think you and I both asked was how did Will read the book which he is in? The answer would be that the story was completely made up; therefore he could do whatever he likes. Another good point to back this up is the placement of Pelafina's character. She was introduced to the reader at the back of the book. Usually the end of the book is the most important part, so Danielewski placed her there to emphasize her importance. Do you think this take on the book is true?
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