Author: Ngoc

First-year student at the U of Tsukuba

Publication permission granted in February 2024

Introduction

In the Country of Last Things by Paul Auster was written in the late twentieth century when the patriarchal society witnessed the growth of the feminist movement. While most readers assume the novel is about a fictional dystopian world, it “offers multifold versions of present-day” (Fargione 122). Additionally, in an interview with Joseph Mallia, he also strongly rejects the classification of the novel as “apocalyptic science fiction” (Mallia 27). Therefore, we can say that the novel resembles many hints about the current time society and its changes. This essay focuses on the portrayal of the patriarchal society and feminist elements in the novel.

The portrayal of the patriarchal society

      The influences of the patriarchal society can be seen in the dynamics between Isabel and Ferdinand since these are clear evidence of two important notions that come with patriarchy: male domination and female inferiority. Ferdinand is described as an unemployed, alcoholic, irresponsible, and abusive husband who lacks control over the external world. He views Isabel, his wife, primarily as a source of labor, showing no gratitude for her works and even referring to her as “the old bone bag” (43). Although Isabel is the breadwinner and decision-maker in their household, she remains subject to her husband's mental control. Ferdinand has always been Isabel’s priority, and she is catering to all his hopes and desires without complaint. Her obedient attitude toward her husband can be considered a result of a patriarchal society, where women are often associated with subservient roles. 

Furthermore, patriarchy also influences Isabel and Ferdinand’s attitudes toward Anna. When Isabel loses her ability to go scavenging with Anna, she changes Anna's appearance as she is “too pretty for daily contact with the street” (39). This sheds light on the objectification of women within the city, where their feminine features are seen as a source of lust. While Isabel treats Anna kindly and often refers to her as “dear little child” and “my angel,” Ferdinand’s behavior is nothing close to that. He constantly insults Anna, calling her “little tramp,” “little slut” and “bitch”, and even attempting to rape her. While external circumstances may contribute to Ferdinand’s anger issues, the main issue lies in the deeply rooted belief that women exist to provide comfort and obedience to men. This unconscious belief allows him to do such things without feeling any guilt. 

Nevertheless, Ferdinand is also a victim of the patriarchal society, considering patriarchy also negatively affects men. While being described as an abusive and useless husband of Isabel, he was, in fact, a man with a stable career in commercial painting and even owned a workplace in the old days (31, 32). However, his career went down after the purge, and eventually, Ferdinand lost his sense of power. His weird obsession with miniature ships can be seen as a way for him to boost his self-esteem. According to licensed psychoanalyst Naomi Snider, men “often describe feelings of anger and shame whenever their sense of autonomy or power is threatened or their vulnerability exposed” since patriarchy discourages help-seeking from men. As a result, although Isabel stated that Ferdinand was already a moody person (32), the failure in his career also contributed to Ferdinand’s anger issues and his unmannered behavior. 

Elements of feminism

Along with the presence of patriarchy throughout the novel, elements of feminism are highlighted with the appearance of female characters such as Anna, Isabel, and Victoria. Despite their different background and characteristics, they all share the common aspiration for a life where they can authentically be themselves as a woman. The moment when Anna stood up and protected herself when she nearly got raped by Ferdinand (50), Isabel’s dream about freedom when she refers to Ferdinand’s miniature ship (32), or when Victoria had to get through her husband’s dead and left her children because she “did not want to be one of those people who had given up and run away” (92). These moments show that being a woman does not equal being weak or following traditional gender stereotypes. They all have their dream and perspective in life, and they would not give up even under challenging circumstances. 

The bond between Anna, Isabel, and Victoria also embraces the aspect of feminism, which is where women support women. Isabel and Anna’s dependence on each other, expressed as “I needed her just as much as she needed me” (54), and the shared “certain language” between Anna and Victoria as they grew up in similar backgrounds (91, 92) even evolving into a romantic relationship, highlight the strong found in female connections. Isabel and Victoria both became lifesavers for Anna, helping her get through one of the most difficult days in the city. Anna also acts as a loyal friend willing to face challenges alongside them. The bonds formed between these women not only embrace the idea of feminism through women supporting women but also emphasize the interdependence within their relationships.

Conclusion

In summary, the portrayal of the patriarchal society, as well as feminist elements, are highlighted throughout the novel. While Isabel and Ferdinand’s marriage exposes the norms of patriarchal society, the resilient female characters – Anna, Isabel, and Victoria – showcase the strength and support that lie in feminist ideals. The juxtaposition of patriarchal influences and feminist elements within the novel is a powerful commentary on the complexities of gender dynamics and the pursuit of individual agency for women.

Bibliography

Auster, Paul. In the Country of Last Things. PENGUIN BOOKS, 1987.

Fargione, Daniela. “Words and/as Waste in Paul Austen's In the Country of Last Things.” Democracy and Difference. The U.S. in Multidisciplinary and Comparative Perspectives (2012)127-132.

Snider, Naomi. Patriarchy hurts men and women - how can therapy help us get rid of it? n.d. Accessed 1 January 2024. <https://www.ipa.world/IPA/en/News/Patriarchy_hurts_men_and_women.aspx>.