I just finished this book and as a black woman it hurt to read some parts. First of all it is constantly emphasised that women are weak and just overall worse than men, from multiple character povs. I know it was published in the 1930s but come on man. Also, and this has bothered me most of all, why is it that every review I’ve seen of this book fails to mention the very weird way Asta’s character is treated. The lust in all the men’s eyes over this little girl’s body is described in great detail. I’m honestly surprised Laxness didn’t describe the rape, but ultimately grateful to have been spared from that. But of all the interaction she has had with the female characters including her step mum and grandmother, none of them told her about puberty?! And what the hell was that ending “father, father, father” after all that?! This book has made me sick to my stomach. I want to focus on the politics and mysticism but I just cannot ignore the grave injustice that has been done to this girl.
by flyawaywithmeee
1 Comment
I didn’t get the impression from the book that Asta is weak or worse than men. Lots of people say things to that effect, but a major theme is the dissonance between people’s words, actions, and inner lives. Out of everyone, Asta is the one who best absorbs Bjartur’s independent, stubborn nature. Rosa is also treated very sympathetically.