In what ways does Tax (2002) suggest that Earthsea may still be relevant today?
A Wizard of Earthsea is an imaginative and emotionally deep tale about a young man named Ged who becomes a wizard and learns about the dark side of human nature, especially his own. The themes in the text are not simply ones based entirely on fantasy. In fact, the themes in A Wizard of Earthsea are vitally relevant to today, as suggested in M. Tax's 2002 article.
Tax (2002) tells us that during much of the 20th century, and even up to this day to some degree, that fiction heavily grounded in reality was considered "Serious" literature and other genres, such as fantasy or science fiction, were inferior. This is no doubt because of the increasing interest in such things as rationalism and science, even secularism, as noted by Tax (2002) also. Without this direct connection people no doubt felt or feel that the themes expressed in the narrative are of no relevance to their lives and thus not worthy of their attention. However, the themes in Earthsea, despite it them being set against an otherworldly backdrop, are very relevant to our real world society.
An example of such a theme, the key theme of the text, is the dark side of human nature. Ged, consumed by jealousy, pride and hatred, conjures forth a shadow which tries to destroy him. At first he runs from it fearing it, then he tries to destroy it but is unable, and finally he accepts it into himself, quite literally, seeing that it is a part of him. Undeniably there is a dark side to human nature, one we try to destroy or hide, but in the end must find a way to accept. This idea of alter ego is, and forever will be, an important idea to society.
Another idea Tax (2002) talks about is one not found necessarily in the text, but more in the readers reaction. "They let the wind into our imaginations, and help to set us free". Tax (2002) talks about fantasy's ability to transport its reader to another universe for some much needed escapism. Our society has become increasingly anti creative, non expressive or just plain dull and fantasy helps alleviate that. In fact, I believe that some measure of fantasy or make-believe is necessary for our complex minds, minds which often wonder into other realities regardless. Despite what mainstream literature might say fantasy undoubtedly has its place amongst the world of fiction and narrative.
References:
Le Guinn, U. (1993; 1968). A
Wizard of Earthsea. London: Penguin.
Tax, M. (Jan 28, 2002). Year of
Harry Potter, Enter the Dragon.
In The Nation.
By Rowan Moss
Indeed. And that same inherent drive to engage with 'fantastical' narratives might well explain the enduring popularity of gaming (particularly in this decade where narrative is beginning to play a much larger part in game-design).
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