Entitled Opinions (about Life and Literature) cover image

Entitled Opinions (about Life and Literature)

Laura Wittman on Michel Tournier's Friday

Sep 14, 2005
Laura Wittman, who received her Ph.D. in Italian Language and Literature from Yale University, discusses Michel Tournier's 'Friday'. They explore the connection between literature and life, Tournier's rewriting of Robinson Crusoe, the stages of 'Friday', evading reality on the island, and their enthusiasm for the novel.
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Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The novel Friday explores the protagonist's journey from isolation to connection with the natural world and the transformative power of embracing one's surroundings.
  • The novel highlights the influence of non-Western cultures on Western society, emphasizing the need for a greater appreciation of nature and the challenges faced by non-Westerners in Western societies.

Deep dives

Robinson's journey from solitude to connection

In this podcast episode, the novel Friday is discussed as a retelling of the Robinson Crusoe story. The main theme explored in the novel is the journey of the protagonist, Robinson, from a state of solitude to a deep connection with the natural world. Robinson initially tries to recreate the world he left behind by imposing order and cultivating the island. However, through his encounter with Friday, he learns to embrace his surroundings and appreciate the elemental aspects of life. Friday's laughter and his symbolic actions guide Robinson to a new understanding of death and rebirth. Ultimately, Robinson's journey allows him to find intimacy with the living world and a sense of wonder.

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