Heart of Darkness Textual Analysis

‘Heart of darkness’ has to be one of the most difficult books I have ever read in my life.  Definitely a key aspect which makes the books stand is it’s excessive use of imagery. Which is an idea made even more profound when the reader realizes that the great majority of the story is said through the dialogue of only one character. For me the Dynamic of the characters were incredibly impossible to uncover without conducting a thorough analyzation. And sometimes it was the characters that held little importance to the plot, that seemed more interesting, and vital in comparison to the main characters. This is seen through the symbolism, of the Fates during the beginning of the story, which could have been used as an essential tool from the author to foreshadow the death of innocence, and purity, when the lead character enters, and leaves the African colony. Another example is the mistress of Mr. Kurtz, who was used to highlight the overbearing of Mr.Kurtz’ primal instincts, which ultimately got the better of him. This can be proven through his Intended who informs Marlow that she has waited for Kurtz for years.

Definitely one thing that fascinated me about the story, was how the author slowly glamorized the character of Kurtz up until his characters introduction. Ultimately, Kurtz, had a much more important, and essential role in the book then Marlow. It can even be argued that perhaps Kurtz was the main character of the book, and it is difficult to point out whether he was a static or a dynamic character.

I was also deeply interested with the powerful rants, and tangents Marlow would oftentimes go off on, describing the primitive agitation that resides among everyone including himself. The narration of the story is also a complicated tool the author used, which could have been done intentionally to showcase foreshadowing tactics. I do have to admit though, that the constant pauses between the past, and present did frustrate me while reading the story, and made the narration, slightly more difficult to comprehend.

The racist and sexist and commentary which was used in the novel, was another thing which agitated me while reading the ‘Heart of Darkness’. It is almost difficult to point out whether it explains the characteristics of Marlow, or if it’s the author's words and ideas that are being explored. Considering the time this was written though, it is important to note that the racial slurs that were said, perhaps had little-to-no-effect then as they do now. It can also be noted that the book was published in the late 1800’s. Which marked a controversial time in global history, when European imperialism was at its peak. The book could have potentially been made to protest against imperialism among foreign nations.

I do believe it was a good book. However based off of it’s complex narration and text, I would definitely not recommend it. Although I loved it due to its symbolism, and it’s message. I do feel that the racism in the text did lower my interests in the book.