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The Suit continued analysis
LITERATURE: HOW AND WHY? (ELL1013F)
University of Cape Town
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Can Themba, the original author, penned this haunting tale in 1963. It revolves around the devastating punishment inflicted upon an adulterous wife named Matilda by her husband, Philemon. The central theme explores betrayal, morality, and the misuse of power. However, the story has not remained static. Over time, other writers have reimagined and expanded upon it, adding new layers and perspectives. Here are some notable adaptations: 1. Makhosazana Xaba (2013) contributed significantly to the narrative. In her story “Behind ‘The Suit’”, she writes in epistolary form, with Philemon’s dying male lover addressing his daughter. This queer perspective adds complexity to the original fable. 2. Xaba’s second story, “The Suit Continued: The Other Side”, is narrated by Matilda herself after her suicide. It delves into her affair with another woman and their plan to have a baby. These queer temporalities challenge traditional norms and contribute to postcolonial queer writing and reading. 3. Siphiwo Mahala, in his work published in 2011, also engages with the story. While Themba’s original was set during apartheid, Mahala’s context is nearly two decades after the abolition of that political system. His exploration of power relations and betrayal sheds light on the impact of historical oppression. In summary, these adaptations deconstruct Themba’s story, infusing it with feminist and queer narratives. They critique hetero-patriarchy, marriage, procreation, and the broader South African context.
“The Suit Continued: The Other Side” is a powerful narrative that delves into the untold perspective of Matilda, revealing the complexities of relationships, identity, and societal expectations. Let’s explore some critical aspects of this thought-provoking story: 1. Narrative Perspective: o The story is recounted in first-person narration by Matilda, giving readers direct insight into her thoughts, emotions, and experiences. o This shift in perspective challenges assumptions made in the original story and invites readers to reconsider the truth behind the suit. 2. Queer Temporalities: o Makhosazana Xaba, the author, introduces queer temporalities by exploring Matilda’s affair with another woman. o The narrative reveals their plan to have a baby, adding layers of complexity to Matilda’s character and her relationship with societal norms. 3. Critique of Hetero-Patriarchy: o Both “Behind ‘The Suit’” and “The Suit Continued: The Other Side” critique traditional norms. o They question hetero-patriarchy, marriage, procreation, and societal expectations within the context of Sophiatown and black communities. o By doing so, they contribute meaningfully to postcolonial queer writing and reading. 4. Deconstructing Can Themba’s Story: o These adaptations deconstruct controversial features of Can Themba’s iconic story, “The Suit”. o They infuse it with ground-breaking feminist and queer narratives, challenging the status quo. In summary, “The Suit Continued: The Other Side” provides a fresh perspective, highlighting the complexities of love, betrayal, and societal
o Matilda’s affair with another woman challenges societal norms and expectations. o Their plan to have a baby adds further layers of intrigue and defiance. 6. Effects of Xaba’s Adaptation: o Xaba’s re-fashioning of Themba’s original text disrupts the conventional narrative. “The Suit Continued: The Other Side”: A Fresh Perspective In Makhosazana Xaba’s poignant narrative, “The Suit Continued: The Other Side,” we step into the shoes of Matilda, a character previously relegated to the shadows. Here’s an exploration of the story’s key elements:
- Narrative Perspective: o Matilda’s first-person narration allows us to delve into her inner world. o We witness her emotions, thoughts, and experiences, challenging the assumptions made in the original tale.
- Queer Temporalities: o Xaba introduces queer temporalities, emphasizing Matilda’s affair with another woman. o Their plan to have a baby adds layers of complexity, defying societal norms.
- Critique of Hetero-Patriarchy: o Both “Behind ‘The Suit’” and “The Suit Continued: The Other Side” question traditional norms. o They challenge hetero-patriarchy, marriage, and societal expectations within Sophiatown’s black community.
- Matilda’s Voice: o Matilda reveals her side of the story, asserting her agency. o Her longing, betrayal, and love come to the forefront.
- Complex Relationships:
o Matilda’s affair disrupts norms, inviting readers to reconsider love and desire. o The secrecy and passion between her and Gladys defy societal constraints. 6. Effects of Xaba’s Adaptation: o Xaba reimagines Themba’s original text, unraveling its conventional narrative. o Through Matilda, we glimpse a world beyond the suit, where identities intersect in unexpected ways. In this tale of love, betrayal, and societal expectations, Matilda’s voice echoes, inviting us to question the truth behind the suit
The Suit continued analysis
Course: LITERATURE: HOW AND WHY? (ELL1013F)
University: University of Cape Town
