As I visited many sites regarding a definition of the concept of intertextuality, there seems to be a constant understanding of what this concept means. I found that it is "the theory that a literary work is not simply the product of a single author, but of its relationship to other texts and to the structures of language itself; linkages across texts or discourse events and meaning of texts as shaped by what has come before it, as well as anticipation of future responses; and the shaping of a text's meaning by other texts."
It goes without saying that Diaz's novel would not be the same had he not included references/allusions to sci-fi texts, comic books, video games, films, etc. I think the reason behind this is Diaz’s way of playing with the concept of genre through his characters. The narrator of Wao often refers to Oscar’s love of Genre with a capital “G,” possibly separating genre from Genre in a way that Oscar is an outsider status as a nerd as separated from a “non-nerdy” American/Dominican existence.
Kara Dunford's Post: The term intertextuality represents the influence outside texts’ have on a particular text. Authors who use intertextuality borrow ideas from preexisting text to enhance or develop a better understanding of their own text with the ability to reference between the two back and forth. Poststructuralist Julia Kristeva introduced the term in the 1960’s and defined its use as an “intervention in a cultural system” (Literary) in other words the recycling of previously published texts’ used to enhance the understanding of new ideas as culture changes. Diaz uses intertexts in The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao extensively from lengthily foot notes on relevant Dominican historic facts, references to sci-fi books, movies, comics and famous authors. The footnotes on Dominican history are imperative to the work in my eyes because the average reader has little to no knowledge of the events, leaders and tragedies going on in Caribbean isles. Diaz is aware of this fact therefore he uses intertexts to provide background holding his readers interest by keeping them informed. Allusions are used when Diaz makes reference to outside literary works, and myths. The fuku or curse that seems to be at the center of the de Leon family’s conflicts is used as an allusion. Diaz works the fuku’s power into the text constantly and provides a history of how and why this family curse began and the lasting effects it has on the family. Intertexts and allusions go along with the work’s larger themes by building a base or foundation of understanding. If Diaz had been an inconsiderate author by not incorporating these elements into the text its readability and message would clouded. It is necessary for a text of this nature to include these elements because the main themes would be overlooked with confusion while the reader is left scratching their head over minor historical and cultural concerns.
Works Cited Allen, G. (2005, January 24). Intertextuality. Retrieved February 07, 2011, from The Literary Encyclopedia: http://www.litencyc.com/php/stopics.php?rec=true&UID=1229
I read an interview with Diaz and in it he talked about the intertextuality in Oscar Wao and he says that he figures there to be at least 100 references to other works throughout the novel. Part of the reason he did so was because he thought "if you were really, really, really nerdy, you could go and read some of the books that Oscar Wao read."
These references are central to the larger theme of the dual nature of the characters. Now, most of these references went over my head (sci-fi and comic books I know nothing about) but because of the context they were used in I could understand more about the character. I noticed this was true for the insertions of Spanish throughout the novel as well. The back and forth of language between English and Spanish showed the dual nationality of Oscar and the references to the other works of literature showed the dual nature of Oscar's personality: sci-fi comic book fan and his Dominican heritage.
Intertextuality is when the meaning of a particular text is shaped by other texts. Junot Diaz uses the concept of intertextuality to shape the meaning of his novel. When the narrator refers to different science fiction or fantasy characters he is utilizing intertextuality. These allusions to different texts guide the perceptions the reader has of certain characters and events within the text. For example, when Trujillo or his minions are discussed, the narrator uses evil characters to analogize him. When the narrator discusses a "heroic" character, heroes from the Genre are metioned.
In a way Oscar De Leon is, in fact, an intertext, in of himself. He defines himself by what he has read and played. He has been influenced by his dueling cultures as well as his love for the science fiction genre.
My general understanding of intertextuality involves the web of influences that the author had consciously or unconsciously used as creative resources while writing. An example that always jumps out at me (*gasp* here comes a Harry Potter reference) is the Dementors in Harry Potter and the nine Ring Wraiths in The Lord of the Rings, which are similar non-speaking characters. Intertextuality can be difficult to prove or even find. It seems likely to me that JK Rowling read LotR and was influenced by it, but it is possible that she never did and unless I hear differently I cannot know. It is not hard at all to trace the intertextuality in Oscar Wao because Diaz is constantly bombarding the reader with these references. When it comes to intertextuality, you are only supposed to see it If you have read it, but Diaz does the opposite. He wants the reader to be fully aware of what they have not read or taken part in. The Intertextuality is supposed to be an alienating technique for the reader, in order to make them feel left out.
Gianna K. The information I found while searching the term intertextuality lead me to the general conclusion that it is the author's use of other texts and outside references to further develop his/her story and characters as a whole. I think one of the most beneficial ways Diaz used intertextuality was by including the footnotes about the Dominican culture and the Trujillo regime because, like Diaz states early in the novel, I was one "who missed (my) mandatory two seconds of Dominican history" and knew nothing on the topic. Diaz's multiple comic book and sci-fi references, although I could not directly relate to them, helped reinforce the supernatural element by bringing in elements of relatively common popculture that readers could relate to, such as Lord of the Rings and the Twilight Zone. The inclusion of other texts also made the story more "real" to me because the references included were very familiar to me or at least ones I have heard of before. Being able to recall specific texts and references made it easier for me to believe in the story as if it were true.
As others have commented, intertextuality refers to the meaning and content of a text being influenced by other texts. In one sense, we can obviously see elements of intertextuality in Oscar Wao, but apart from these references we might see how Diaz has created something completely original in this novel. When I use the word "original" I cannot help but think of Roland Barthes' "The Death of the Author." (An essay which always annoys me) In his essay, the main idea is that the author is not the one who creates. Barthes sees a text as a "fabric of quotations, resulting from a thousand sources of culture." In some ways we might see how Diaz's novel backs up Barthes' claims. Diaz borrows influences from his family, the Dominican-American community, and of course the science-fiction and comic book world. Even so, I don't think that the book is controlled by these references and influences. In the end it is the personal stories of the characters which become important. I agree with the review on the back of the book from the San Francisco Chronicle: "something exceedingly rare: a book in which a new America can recognize itself, but so can everyone else." Diaz uses literary and cultural references to enhance the stories, but in the end there is something outside the world of literary influence which drives the stories of the characters. Also, Diaz's stories concerning those affected by Trujillo can be considered groundbreaking. As he addresses in some interviews, there are very few who felt safe telling stories about Trujillo's regime. That was one reason why he wanted to write the book - to figure out how the past has affected the future.
After reading through a few of the definitions for intertextuality, I find this one to be the easiest to understand. It gets straight to the point:
“Intertextuality occurs frequently in popular media such as television shows, movies, novels and even interactive video games. In these cases, intertextuality is often used to provide depth to the fictional reality portrayed in the medium, such as characters in one television show [or novel] mentioning characters from another.” (http://www.artandpopularculture.com/Intertextuality)
Diaz’s use of intertextuality is extensive with the mention of comics, sci-fi, etc. But, what I find interesting is his use of the text from Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings novels. Diaz applies the names of the characters from the The Lord of the Rings to the characters in his book. Trujillo is compared to Sauron, the Great Eye (pp. 111, 121, 156,226, 229) and his henchman to the Witch Kings (which are also Ringwraiths, pg.121). La Inca is compared to Galadriel “who with her elvish ring of her will had forged within Bani her own personal Lothlorien” (pp. 156, 276). Santo Domingo is also compared to Mordor (Sauron’s land). Also, the capitan takes “Gollum-pity” on Oscar (pg. 297). But these are only a few comparisons that I marked. If a person is familiar with the Rings story, a clearer comparison can be seen when the book is read all the way through.
Near the end of the book, we find out that The Lord of the Rings is one of Oscar’s “greatest loves and greatest comforts since he’d first discovered it” (pg. 307). Having read the LOTR books myself, and seen the movies, Diaz has given me a perfect image of how evil Trujillo and his regime were to the people of Santo Domingo.
Intertextuality is the use of other texts within a text, or the referencing of other texts within a particular text. Diaz' intertextuality is the use of comic book references. As we discussed in class, part of the reason he does this is to alienate the reader. We are outsiders, and cannot possibly understand what it is like to be Dominican or experience the things that the de Leons have. Just like Diaz uses Spanish to connect with a certain audience, he uses comic books to connect to another. he wants to reach a wide range of people, even if those people can't fully understand what he is writing about. He uses the borrowed references to deepen our understanding of Oscar and his family because through all of the intertextuality, it is still the individual's stories that Diaz wants us to walk away with.
Sarah Thomas Diaz uses very interesting and modern intertextuality. Instead of using something that would be considered "high society" or classical references such epics or great philosophies he uses modern day, slightly obscure references. For instance, Diaz makes references to Lord of the Rings and Dungeons and Dragons. These references to other texts when reading over them are easy to pass over. It's like a second language like the Spanish in the novel; you get it or you don't. By making these references, Diaz is able to show how we categorize one another. This group speaks Spanish and understands and this group does not. This group knows Lord of the Rings and this group does not. This group knows about Dominican history and this group knows nothing about the terrible history. It shows a personalized identity within the reader and the author as well. Each person has their own set of "codes" or references within the text that they understand that show their knowledge. Oscar has his own code in describing his understanding of the word through allusions to other texts that he sees withing himself. By doing so, intertextuality works more than to show how people are categorized and separated, but also how people are all united. The texts are a series of references to one another which mirrors the relationship that we all are connected in some manner by these references. We each are an individual with our own background an way of relating to or referencing our personality. This sort of universal idea unites one another through intertextuality.
Intertextuality as a student (at least the way I understand it) is the act of connect one text with another or multiple others. This connection can be made to convey a similar theme between texts or as similar motifs that appear throughout all of the texts (etc). As I search for a definition of intertextuality that was more geared towards Oscar Wao, I found that it is the use of/allusions to other texts, novels, etc. within a text.
In Diaz's novel, this intertextuality is clear. He makes references to various science fiction novels and films often to convey a larger theme in the novel. Oscar is a character who truly feels that he doesn't belong to the societies in which he should be nature belong to. He is a Dominican who is not a player so to speak and therefore doesn't fit in there. He is also rejected in his American community ironically because of his nature, as he looks Dominican. He (and many other characters) face this issue of dual identity and a struggle to either balance the two or fit into either one. The Lord of the Rings felt like home to Oscar; a home that he had never belonged to at any other point in his life. Yunior is also interesting in this context. He fights his "nature" as a play to try and make it work with Lola. He has a constant struggle within himself to adhere to what is deemed "Dominican". He chastises Oscar for his love of Science Fiction because such "nerdyness" is not viewed as appropriate in Dominican culture yet he makes constant references to Science Fiction works. He seems to be keeping up appearances more than anything else. Through allusions to other texts (intertextuality) Diaz is able to place emphasis on this theme in particular.
Intertextuality is a literary concept that describes how literature, to various degrees, influences other literature. In The Brief and Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao, intertextuality plays a big part in promoting themes and characterization. Diaz makes a lot of references to other pieces of writing. One that particularly stands out to me is his allusion to In the Time of the Butterflies, Julia Alvarez's novel about the Mirabel sisters. By mentioning this novel, Diaz emphasizes the theme of nationality and individuality; he also alludes to the historical context of the novel, which deals with Trujillo. Making references to other novels gives the book a meta-narrative feel, too. In addition to promoting his themes, the use of comic book references adds to the characterization of Oscar; he would frequently mention comic book names in his dialogue with other characters. Yunior also uses comic book references (i.e. The Watcher), which suggests Oscar's heavy influence on him as he later recounts the story of the de Leons.
Intertextuality is pretty much a self-explanatory term, and refers to when an author brings up other texts within his own, larger text. This can range from anything from big, obvious, narrative similarities between texts to brief, two-word references to other novels/films/songs/etc. I'm not sure if anyone has read the book The Hours, but that entire book is sort of based completely around Virginia Woolf's novel Mrs. Dalloway, and would probably fall into the former category. Diaz's novel, on the other hand, isn't necessarily inspired by a single dominant outside text, but is filled with constant references to science fiction/fantasy novels and comic books. Aside from those involving the Lord of the Rings, I couldn’t understand most of the references since I’d never read any of the things Diaz was referencing. Even so, I kind of enjoyed them. They were one of the many flourishes that (I felt) set Diaz’s novel apart from other fiction, and gave the book more of a distinct personality. It also made sense in terms of the story, as Oscar himself was constantly being described as such a huge comic/sci-fi fan. Since Oscar frequently seemed to view his own life as if he were in a comic book, it seemed natural that Diaz would infuse that “world” into his story. Also, it is late right now and it’s possible and I’m not remembering things correctly, but I’m pretty sure that the comic/sci-fi references mostly appeared in the sections of the book that focused on Oscar’s life (which would make sense).
As I had presumed, intertextuality is just as it sounds. It is the reference of other texts with in a text. I find this to be a great way to connect with the reader. While the particular texts that one is reading may be new, those that the author references to may not be. This familiarity allows readers to make connections and assumptions without having to spell it out directly. Though in Oscar Wao it is clear that Oscar is a misfit; the intertextual references assist in driving this point home. The idea of a "good Dominican" is very clear. So when Oscar is constantly making references to comic books, Lord of the Rings, or even his own writing; it is clear that Diaz is using these as things to set him apart. A large part of this novel is Oscar trying to find his place, where he fits in, these references help to do so. Literary allusions are references to historical figures, or significant points in history, or another work of literature (uncp.edu). Though these allusions blanket the intersexual references, the historical information in the novel is very key. In order to understand the characters or why they make certain choices the explanations of family past in connection with history are helpful. For example it is easy to see a negative relationship with love across the board for the characters in the novel. Is this in relation to fukú? Or the explanation of the violence occurring in the Dominican resulting in a generation of “macho” males is this why Oscar seems so “un”- Dominican? Both intertextual references and literary allusions play a large role in the narrative, without them there would be a large gap in understanding this novel.
Intertextuality, to shape one texts meaning through the use of others, or to provide a greater sense of allusion then is typical. Some even contend that intertextuality refers to not simply a "text," but to all mediums of art that could be related to the main piece. It is thought that the use of this method provides the readers with the ability to discern meaning in the primary work, as the author now draws upon separate works to give contrast to the reader. I am of the opinion that this is not so; as any work will be subject to the prejudices and predispositions of the viewer/reader, and thus interpretations are likely to vary and it is almost disappointing when they do not. Meaning, therefore, can be purported and shown by the artist, but can not be guaranteed equal meaning or interpretation on the viewer's side. In Diaz's novel, intertextuality is used copiously in referencing science fiction, fantasy and comic books. I hypothesize that it is to increase the reader's level of compassion for Oscar, and perhaps even to stir up some sort of vicarious reaction. Obviously not everyone who reads this novel will understand every reference that is made, so some readers will likely feel left out and confused on subject matter or meaning. This could be in reaction to Oscar's detachment from people in general. Not everything the characters in the story refer to will be understood by Oscar, as he is, in a sense, operating in a different world, with separate values. The same could be said about Oscar's Dominican heritage and his continued status as a virgin. He feels left out and ostracized. This technique also crosses over to the large amount of Spanish text in the novel, and historical references to the Dominican Republic. In fact, Diaz seems to parody the term "intertextuality," through his continued use of footnotes, which even though the typical use of footnotes is meant to be used as a tool which clarifies and aids the reader's understanding of the text, in this sense the footnotes still make obscure references and confound the reader.
Intertextuality is defined as, “The complex interrelationship between a text and other texts taken as basic to the creation or interpretation of the text”. As I was reading the novel, I found I could relate to Oscar in a way most people could not relate. I do not get all the references but I do get quite a few allusions to. I feel as though I can relate to his character because of the common bond of sci-fi and all things nerdy but also the struggle of identity inside. The intertexuality comes into play especially with characters that are similar to Lord of the Rings characters as he references Sauron, Gollum, and the nazgûl. A lot of the references are not as meaningful as side references to Dune and Macross Frontier (although quite enjoyable). But other references where he relates characters or things characters have done in respect to other works, he is creating intertextuality between other literary works. The book has a sense of deepness that if one knows and comprehends the references, that person will find a greater sense of understanding of the novel.
Diaz weaves a complicated web of intertextual references as a way to develop the characters in this novel. Yunior, as the narrator, makes a lot of the references to genre and to Dominican history and culture as a way of explaining Oscar's character. It is his familiarity with both these sets of references that allows him to connect to Oscar and begin to see him for who he is, a boy who lives in a fantasy world whose meaning is constructed largely by imaginary references to genre. In way, the simplistic good-vs-evil dynamic of most genre fiction is echoed in the way Dominican politics is represented in this novel, with the evil Trujillo/Sauron as the source of everything bad that happens to Oscar's family. Oscar's obsession with love is logical within the context (intertext) of genre, because in the end, that is what always ends up conquering evil in the worlds of genre. If Oscar could have found love, he would have redeemed the evil of Trujillo, at least a little, and broken the fuku, but good-vs-evil isn't as simple as genre would like the readers to believe. Defeating it isn't just a matter of individual heroism in the face of systemic oppression and murder.
Intertextuality is the idea that writing is not original, but rather a new arrangement of previous works. Kristeva said that text “is constructed of a mosaic of quotations; any text is the absorption and transformation of another.” I agree that texts are extremely dependent on previous works or ideas, but a transformation implies the creation of something new. Of course people are heavily influenced by what they read or hear, but the conclusions or ideas that they come up with based on these influences are their own. I think a new text or idea cannot be separated from previous texts, but to say that they are one in the same or a simple rearrangement is naïve. Diaz's use of intertext is obvious with all his references to comic books, role-playing games, and movies. It is also present in the historical references and the idea of the fuku, which imply that the de Leon’s lives are an unfortunate intertext. These references provide a description of Oscar and the world he has created for himself regardless of the reader's prior knowledge. Not knowing an obscure anime movie can give as much information about who Oscar is as knowing what Diaz is referring to. When reading the novel, the stream of allusions might be frustrating, or even annoying for anyone who does not have the prior knowledge. I have to say that I felt left out, or that I was missing an important part of the story. But then a read a quote from a short article that said “the reader's own previous readings, experiences and position within the cultural formation also form crucial intertexts.” This made me realize that my experience with the book is completely original because of what the experiences I brought to it. It was interesting to think that the experience of the novel could change depending on what the reader knows.
The definition I found says, "Intertextuality refers to the way in which texts gain meaning through their referencing or evocation of other texts." It places the work in a larger context, as opposed to being an isolated work. Diaz uses this technique to saturate the novel with additional meaning for both Oscar and the reader. The constant references to the genre fiction Oscar loves illustrate the level of his obsession and help draw the reader into his worldview. They also show the reader how much Yunior learned about genre fiction during his time with Oscar. It seems to me that Yunior thinks it wouldn't be a proper telling of Oscar's story without paying homage to the things that meant the most to him
Katie Richardson's Post: From dictionary.com, Intertextuality is referred to as the relationship between texts: the relationship that exists between different texts, especially literary texts, or the reference in one text to others.
Diaz uses intertexts in the novel to enhance the themes and motifs throughout. By including references to things like The Twilight Zone and Lord of the Rings, Diaz further enhances the theme of the supernatural throughout the text. The belief in the fuku and the supernatural presence of the golden mongoose and the man without a face fits in with the science fiction references that interest Oscar.
I also thing intertexts work towards the theme of the individual vs. the nation, as in the final words of the novel “The beauty! The beauty!” alluding to “The horror! The horror!” from Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness. Both books deal with the theme of the individual versus outside forces, whether it is opposing the jungle itself or Trijullo’s regime in the Dominican Republic.
Intertextuality refers to one text’s relationship with another text, whether it is a reimaging of the text or just a reference. It is a common feature in postmodern works.
The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao is full of references to different pop-culture texts. In particular, Diaz seemed to allude to the Lord of the Rings many times when describing Trujillo’s dictatorship. I think one reason that he decided to use so many allusions was to give his audience a better visual or understanding of the gravity of the situation. However, it is interesting that he chooses to compare the two when one is completely fantasy and the other is reality. Perhaps that is to remind us just how unbelievable reality can be sometimes.
These references also go along with the idea that the title character is a self-declared nerd and if he existed, would possibly be making these references himself. It makes the book feel more realistic because we all use pop-culture references in our casual, daily speak. It works with the larger themes of alienation and identity because not everyone will understand the sci-fi references, just like not everyone will understand the Spanish phrases.
“ Intertextuality is the shaping of texts' meanings by other texts. It can include an author’s borrowing and transformation of a prior text or to a reader’s referencing of one text in reading another” -Wikipeida definition
I think that the references to sci-fi and comics (LOTR, Watchmen, Fantastic 4 etc) that Diaz uses in relation to Oscar connect several themes within the novel. It re-enforces Oscar as an individual and outsider. As an individual he is the nerdy, fat kid who lacks real friends. He is an outsider in that he doesn’t associate with a lot of people, and he is not ‘truly Dominican’ nor does he exhibit true Dominican masculinity. In the same sense, his family, especially his mother is an outsider as a first generation immigrant to the US. Many of the references are in the footnotes, and as discussed in class a lot of the history is in footnotes which could possibly indicate the metaphor of the DR being a footnote to the US (an outsider). The fuku reference leads to the theme of love and violence, which is heavily connected to family. Beli, Lola and Oscar all have a series of failed relationships that they truly believe are love. Beli-Jack/Gangster, Lola-Max, Oscar-Ana/Jenni. All of these have violence associated (or passed down through the fuku?) especially Beli and Oscar.
Intertextuality is the literary theory that texts exist in the context of all other texts. This is a very vague description of the idea but it makes the most sense to me. One quote that I found that made the theory very clear to me personally is, "All the poems ever written could be imagined to be in one giant book somewhere, where they all respond to one another in extended conversation." That is a really great way to picture how works, especially poems and more openly interpretable works, effect each other and shape our individual interpretations of everything we see.
Diaz uses this pretty obviously in this book by referencing different sci-fi and fantasy texts. I think he does this to keep the reader from making a direct connection with Oscar. I am a very nerdy person and I got many of Diaz' references but even I didn't understand all of them and it kept me from relating to Oscar as much as I would expect to relate to a character that is very similar to me.
I think Diaz also uses intertextuality in a more meta way with his incorporation of history. By exposing the pasts of Beli and her family and setting them in the context of the Trujillo regime I think he creates a very vivid picture of what their lives were like and where their fear of the "fuku" came from without having to explicitly tell the reader all of the details. Our interpretation of the family history is largely shaped by the references to Trujillo and our understanding of maniacal dictators in that region of the world.
After typing "intertextuality" into the google search engine and browsing a few results, I decided I liked the wikipedia explanation as it was concise and understandable: "Intertextuality is the shaping of texts' meanings by other texts."
In terms of Oscar Wao, Diaz employs a seemingly never ending supply of allusions and intertexts. Some of these allusions/ intertexts appear subtlety (or even perhaps go unrecognized by those of us with untrained eyes to the comic world, the Dominican Republic world and even the cultural, political and literary world) while others draw attention to themselves as footnotes. One thing I noticed is that when Diaz references something American-- be it the presidency, a location, etc.-- there is no explanation of it. What's said is said and it appears that Diaz must consider it so well known that no further mention or explanation is necessary. Perhaps here Diaz is commenting on the Western construction of the world narrative. America doesn't need an explanation or comment attached because America is the one that provides the explanations and comments. America is the one who has controlled the narrative. While paragraphs of footnotes are dedicated to delving in deeper to the Trujillo regime, a quick reference to Clinton is made and never again expounded upon.
Dovetailing nicely with that thought is the intertextuality of Diaz's Dominican Republic world. This intertext often appears in the form of footnotes or some other narrative that seems to draw the reader away from the narrative at hand. Perhaps Diaz is commenting on how the Dominican narrative is outside the narrative of Western thought. If the Western world controls the grand narrative, then everyone else is simply adding their comments.
oh man, there is a great deal of intertextuality in Diaz's book. Every time he references Lord of the Rings as a way of describing how dire or severe a situation is, Diaz is relying heavily on intertextuality. Intertextuality works similar to an allusion, but it uses the other piece as more than just a quick reference. Intertextuality uses the second book as a mirror for the book the reader has i his or her hand. It doesn't just pop up for a quick detail, it builds itself along side its reference. When Diaz compares LOTR and Santo Dominico, he is building Santo Dominico into a realm much like Maurder (spelling?). One could say it's like a crutch, but i like to think of it more as two books holding hands, letting their stories overlap.
As I visited many sites regarding a definition of the concept of intertextuality, there seems to be a constant understanding of what this concept means. I found that it is "the theory that a literary work is not simply the product of a single author, but of its relationship to other texts and to the structures of language itself; linkages across texts or discourse events and meaning of texts as shaped by what has come before it, as well as anticipation of future responses; and the shaping of a text's meaning by other texts."
ReplyDeleteIt goes without saying that Diaz's novel would not be the same had he not included references/allusions to sci-fi texts, comic books, video games, films, etc. I think the reason behind this is Diaz’s way of playing with the concept of genre through his characters. The narrator of Wao often refers to Oscar’s love of Genre with a capital “G,” possibly separating genre from Genre in a way that Oscar is an outsider status as a nerd as separated from a “non-nerdy” American/Dominican existence.
Kara Dunford's Post:
ReplyDeleteThe term intertextuality represents the influence outside texts’ have on a particular text. Authors who use intertextuality borrow ideas from preexisting text to enhance or develop a better understanding of their own text with the ability to reference between the two back and forth. Poststructuralist Julia Kristeva introduced the term in the 1960’s and defined its use as an “intervention in a cultural system” (Literary) in other words the recycling of previously published texts’ used to enhance the understanding of new ideas as culture changes. Diaz uses intertexts in The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao extensively from lengthily foot notes on relevant Dominican historic facts, references to sci-fi books, movies, comics and famous authors. The footnotes on Dominican history are imperative to the work in my eyes because the average reader has little to no knowledge of the events, leaders and tragedies going on in Caribbean isles. Diaz is aware of this fact therefore he uses intertexts to provide background holding his readers interest by keeping them informed.
Allusions are used when Diaz makes reference to outside literary works, and myths. The fuku or curse that seems to be at the center of the de Leon family’s conflicts is used as an allusion. Diaz works the fuku’s power into the text constantly and provides a history of how and why this family curse began and the lasting effects it has on the family. Intertexts and allusions go along with the work’s larger themes by building a base or foundation of understanding. If Diaz had been an inconsiderate author by not incorporating these elements into the text its readability and message would clouded. It is necessary for a text of this nature to include these elements because the main themes would be overlooked with confusion while the reader is left scratching their head over minor historical and cultural concerns.
Works Cited
Allen, G. (2005, January 24). Intertextuality. Retrieved February 07, 2011, from The Literary Encyclopedia: http://www.litencyc.com/php/stopics.php?rec=true&UID=1229
Ryan says:
ReplyDeleteI read an interview with Diaz and in it he talked about the intertextuality in Oscar Wao and he says that he figures there to be at least 100 references to other works throughout the novel. Part of the reason he did so was because he thought "if you were really, really, really nerdy, you could go and read some of the books that Oscar Wao read."
These references are central to the larger theme of the dual nature of the characters. Now, most of these references went over my head (sci-fi and comic books I know nothing about) but because of the context they were used in I could understand more about the character. I noticed this was true for the insertions of Spanish throughout the novel as well. The back and forth of language between English and Spanish showed the dual nationality of Oscar and the references to the other works of literature showed the dual nature of Oscar's personality: sci-fi comic book fan and his Dominican heritage.
Intertextuality is when the meaning of a particular text is shaped by other texts. Junot Diaz uses the concept of intertextuality to shape the meaning of his novel. When the narrator refers to different science fiction or fantasy characters he is utilizing intertextuality. These allusions to different texts guide the perceptions the reader has of certain characters and events within the text. For example, when Trujillo or his minions are discussed, the narrator uses evil characters to analogize him. When the narrator discusses a "heroic" character, heroes from the Genre are metioned.
ReplyDeleteIn a way Oscar De Leon is, in fact, an intertext, in of himself. He defines himself by what he has read and played. He has been influenced by his dueling cultures as well as his love for the science fiction genre.
Lauren S.
ReplyDeleteMy general understanding of intertextuality involves the web of influences that the author had consciously or unconsciously used as creative resources while writing. An example that always jumps out at me (*gasp* here comes a Harry Potter reference) is the Dementors in Harry Potter and the nine Ring Wraiths in The Lord of the Rings, which are similar non-speaking characters. Intertextuality can be difficult to prove or even find. It seems likely to me that JK Rowling read LotR and was influenced by it, but it is possible that she never did and unless I hear differently I cannot know.
It is not hard at all to trace the intertextuality in Oscar Wao because Diaz is constantly bombarding the reader with these references. When it comes to intertextuality, you are only supposed to see it If you have read it, but Diaz does the opposite. He wants the reader to be fully aware of what they have not read or taken part in. The Intertextuality is supposed to be an alienating technique for the reader, in order to make them feel left out.
Gianna K.
ReplyDeleteThe information I found while searching the term intertextuality lead me to the general conclusion that it is the author's use of other texts and outside references to further develop his/her story and characters as a whole. I think one of the most beneficial ways Diaz used intertextuality was by including the footnotes about the Dominican culture and the Trujillo regime because, like Diaz states early in the novel, I was one "who missed (my) mandatory two seconds of Dominican history" and knew nothing on the topic.
Diaz's multiple comic book and sci-fi references, although I could not directly relate to them, helped reinforce the supernatural element by bringing in elements of relatively common popculture that readers could relate to, such as Lord of the Rings and the Twilight Zone. The inclusion of other texts also made the story more "real" to me because the references included were very familiar to me or at least ones I have heard of before. Being able to recall specific texts and references made it easier for me to believe in the story as if it were true.
As others have commented, intertextuality refers to the meaning and content of a text being influenced by other texts. In one sense, we can obviously see elements of intertextuality in Oscar Wao, but apart from these references we might see how Diaz has created something completely original in this novel.
ReplyDeleteWhen I use the word "original" I cannot help but think of Roland Barthes' "The Death of the Author." (An essay which always annoys me) In his essay, the main idea is that the author is not the one who creates. Barthes sees a text as a "fabric of quotations, resulting from a thousand sources of culture." In some ways we might see how Diaz's novel backs up Barthes' claims. Diaz borrows influences from his family, the Dominican-American community, and of course the science-fiction and comic book world. Even so, I don't think that the book is controlled by these references and influences. In the end it is the personal stories of the characters which become important. I agree with the review on the back of the book from the San Francisco Chronicle: "something exceedingly rare: a book in which a new America can recognize itself, but so can everyone else." Diaz uses literary and cultural references to enhance the stories, but in the end there is something outside the world of literary influence which drives the stories of the characters.
Also, Diaz's stories concerning those affected by Trujillo can be considered groundbreaking. As he addresses in some interviews, there are very few who felt safe telling stories about Trujillo's regime. That was one reason why he wanted to write the book - to figure out how the past has affected the future.
After reading through a few of the definitions for intertextuality, I find this one to be the easiest to understand. It gets straight to the point:
ReplyDelete“Intertextuality occurs frequently in popular media such as television shows, movies, novels and even interactive video games. In these cases, intertextuality is often used to provide depth to the fictional reality portrayed in the medium, such as characters in one television show [or novel] mentioning characters from another.” (http://www.artandpopularculture.com/Intertextuality)
Diaz’s use of intertextuality is extensive with the mention of comics, sci-fi, etc. But, what I find interesting is his use of the text from Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings novels. Diaz applies the names of the characters from the The Lord of the Rings to the characters in his book. Trujillo is compared to Sauron, the Great Eye (pp. 111, 121, 156,226, 229) and his henchman to the Witch Kings (which are also Ringwraiths, pg.121). La Inca is compared to Galadriel “who with her elvish ring of her will had forged within Bani her own personal Lothlorien” (pp. 156, 276). Santo Domingo is also compared to Mordor (Sauron’s land). Also, the capitan takes “Gollum-pity” on Oscar (pg. 297). But these are only a few comparisons that I marked. If a person is familiar with the Rings story, a clearer comparison can be seen when the book is read all the way through.
Near the end of the book, we find out that The Lord of the Rings is one of Oscar’s “greatest loves and greatest comforts since he’d first discovered it” (pg. 307). Having read the LOTR books myself, and seen the movies, Diaz has given me a perfect image of how evil Trujillo and his regime were to the people of Santo Domingo.
Intertextuality is the use of other texts within a text, or the referencing of other texts within a particular text.
ReplyDeleteDiaz' intertextuality is the use of comic book references. As we discussed in class, part of the reason he does this is to alienate the reader. We are outsiders, and cannot possibly understand what it is like to be Dominican or experience the things that the de Leons have. Just like Diaz uses Spanish to connect with a certain audience, he uses comic books to connect to another. he wants to reach a wide range of people, even if those people can't fully understand what he is writing about.
He uses the borrowed references to deepen our understanding of Oscar and his family because through all of the intertextuality, it is still the individual's stories that Diaz wants us to walk away with.
Sarah Thomas
ReplyDeleteDiaz uses very interesting and modern intertextuality. Instead of using something that would be considered "high society" or classical references such epics or great philosophies he uses modern day, slightly obscure references. For instance, Diaz makes references to Lord of the Rings and Dungeons and Dragons. These references to other texts when reading over them are easy to pass over. It's like a second language like the Spanish in the novel; you get it or you don't. By making these references, Diaz is able to show how we categorize one another. This group speaks Spanish and understands and this group does not. This group knows Lord of the Rings and this group does not. This group knows about Dominican history and this group knows nothing about the terrible history. It shows a personalized identity within the reader and the author as well. Each person has their own set of "codes" or references within the text that they understand that show their knowledge. Oscar has his own code in describing his understanding of the word through allusions to other texts that he sees withing himself. By doing so, intertextuality works more than to show how people are categorized and separated, but also how people are all united. The texts are a series of references to one another which mirrors the relationship that we all are connected in some manner by these references. We each are an individual with our own background an way of relating to or referencing our personality. This sort of universal idea unites one another through intertextuality.
Intertextuality as a student (at least the way I understand it) is the act of connect one text with another or multiple others. This connection can be made to convey a similar theme between texts or as similar motifs that appear throughout all of the texts (etc).
ReplyDeleteAs I search for a definition of intertextuality that was more geared towards Oscar Wao, I found that it is the use of/allusions to other texts, novels, etc. within a text.
In Diaz's novel, this intertextuality is clear. He makes references to various science fiction novels and films often to convey a larger theme in the novel. Oscar is a character who truly feels that he doesn't belong to the societies in which he should be nature belong to. He is a Dominican who is not a player so to speak and therefore doesn't fit in there. He is also rejected in his American community ironically because of his nature, as he looks Dominican. He (and many other characters) face this issue of dual identity and a struggle to either balance the two or fit into either one. The Lord of the Rings felt like home to Oscar; a home that he had never belonged to at any other point in his life. Yunior is also interesting in this context. He fights his "nature" as a play to try and make it work with Lola. He has a constant struggle within himself to adhere to what is deemed "Dominican". He chastises Oscar for his love of Science Fiction because such "nerdyness" is not viewed as appropriate in Dominican culture yet he makes constant references to Science Fiction works. He seems to be keeping up appearances more than anything else.
Through allusions to other texts (intertextuality) Diaz is able to place emphasis on this theme in particular.
Intertextuality is a literary concept that describes how literature, to various degrees, influences other literature. In The Brief and Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao, intertextuality plays a big part in promoting themes and characterization. Diaz makes a lot of references to other pieces of writing. One that particularly stands out to me is his allusion to In the Time of the Butterflies, Julia Alvarez's novel about the Mirabel sisters. By mentioning this novel, Diaz emphasizes the theme of nationality and individuality; he also alludes to the historical context of the novel, which deals with Trujillo. Making references to other novels gives the book a meta-narrative feel, too. In addition to promoting his themes, the use of comic book references adds to the characterization of Oscar; he would frequently mention comic book names in his dialogue with other characters. Yunior also uses comic book references (i.e. The Watcher), which suggests Oscar's heavy influence on him as he later recounts the story of the de Leons.
ReplyDeleteIntertextuality is pretty much a self-explanatory term, and refers to when an author brings up other texts within his own, larger text. This can range from anything from big, obvious, narrative similarities between texts to brief, two-word references to other novels/films/songs/etc. I'm not sure if anyone has read the book The Hours, but that entire book is sort of based completely around Virginia Woolf's novel Mrs. Dalloway, and would probably fall into the former category. Diaz's novel, on the other hand, isn't necessarily inspired by a single dominant outside text, but is filled with constant references to science fiction/fantasy novels and comic books. Aside from those involving the Lord of the Rings, I couldn’t understand most of the references since I’d never read any of the things Diaz was referencing. Even so, I kind of enjoyed them. They were one of the many flourishes that (I felt) set Diaz’s novel apart from other fiction, and gave the book more of a distinct personality. It also made sense in terms of the story, as Oscar himself was constantly being described as such a huge comic/sci-fi fan. Since Oscar frequently seemed to view his own life as if he were in a comic book, it seemed natural that Diaz would infuse that “world” into his story. Also, it is late right now and it’s possible and I’m not remembering things correctly, but I’m pretty sure that the comic/sci-fi references mostly appeared in the sections of the book that focused on Oscar’s life (which would make sense).
ReplyDeleteAs I had presumed, intertextuality is just as it sounds. It is the reference of other texts with in a text. I find this to be a great way to connect with the reader. While the particular texts that one is reading may be new, those that the author references to may not be. This familiarity allows readers to make connections and assumptions without having to spell it out directly. Though in Oscar Wao it is clear that Oscar is a misfit; the intertextual references assist in driving this point home. The idea of a "good Dominican" is very clear. So when Oscar is constantly making references to comic books, Lord of the Rings, or even his own writing; it is clear that Diaz is using these as things to set him apart. A large part of this novel is Oscar trying to find his place, where he fits in, these references help to do so.
ReplyDeleteLiterary allusions are references to historical figures, or significant points in history, or another work of literature (uncp.edu). Though these allusions blanket the intersexual references, the historical information in the novel is very key. In order to understand the characters or why they make certain choices the explanations of family past in connection with history are helpful. For example it is easy to see a negative relationship with love across the board for the characters in the novel. Is this in relation to fukú? Or the explanation of the violence occurring in the Dominican resulting in a generation of “macho” males is this why Oscar seems so “un”- Dominican? Both intertextual references and literary allusions play a large role in the narrative, without them there would be a large gap in understanding this novel.
Intertextuality, to shape one texts meaning through the use of others, or to provide a greater sense of allusion then is typical. Some even contend that intertextuality refers to not simply a "text," but to all mediums of art that could be related to the main piece. It is thought that the use of this method provides the readers with the ability to discern meaning in the primary work, as the author now draws upon separate works to give contrast to the reader. I am of the opinion that this is not so; as any work will be subject to the prejudices and predispositions of the viewer/reader, and thus interpretations are likely to vary and it is almost disappointing when they do not. Meaning, therefore, can be purported and shown by the artist, but can not be guaranteed equal meaning or interpretation on the viewer's side.
ReplyDeleteIn Diaz's novel, intertextuality is used copiously in referencing science fiction, fantasy and comic books. I hypothesize that it is to increase the reader's level of compassion for Oscar, and perhaps even to stir up some sort of vicarious reaction. Obviously not everyone who reads this novel will understand every reference that is made, so some readers will likely feel left out and confused on subject matter or meaning. This could be in reaction to Oscar's detachment from people in general. Not everything the characters in the story refer to will be understood by Oscar, as he is, in a sense, operating in a different world, with separate values. The same could be said about Oscar's Dominican heritage and his continued status as a virgin. He feels left out and ostracized. This technique also crosses over to the large amount of Spanish text in the novel, and historical references to the Dominican Republic. In fact, Diaz seems to parody the term "intertextuality," through his continued use of footnotes, which even though the typical use of footnotes is meant to be used as a tool which clarifies and aids the reader's understanding of the text, in this sense the footnotes still make obscure references and confound the reader.
Intertextuality is defined as, “The complex interrelationship between a text and other texts taken as basic to the creation or interpretation of the text”. As I was reading the novel, I found I could relate to Oscar in a way most people could not relate. I do not get all the references but I do get quite a few allusions to. I feel as though I can relate to his character because of the common bond of sci-fi and all things nerdy but also the struggle of identity inside. The intertexuality comes into play especially with characters that are similar to Lord of the Rings characters as he references Sauron, Gollum, and the nazgûl. A lot of the references are not as meaningful as side references to Dune and Macross Frontier (although quite enjoyable). But other references where he relates characters or things characters have done in respect to other works, he is creating intertextuality between other literary works. The book has a sense of deepness that if one knows and comprehends the references, that person will find a greater sense of understanding of the novel.
ReplyDeleteDiaz weaves a complicated web of intertextual references as a way to develop the characters in this novel. Yunior, as the narrator, makes a lot of the references to genre and to Dominican history and culture as a way of explaining Oscar's character. It is his familiarity with both these sets of references that allows him to connect to Oscar and begin to see him for who he is, a boy who lives in a fantasy world whose meaning is constructed largely by imaginary references to genre. In way, the simplistic good-vs-evil dynamic of most genre fiction is echoed in the way Dominican politics is represented in this novel, with the evil Trujillo/Sauron as the source of everything bad that happens to Oscar's family. Oscar's obsession with love is logical within the context (intertext) of genre, because in the end, that is what always ends up conquering evil in the worlds of genre. If Oscar could have found love, he would have redeemed the evil of Trujillo, at least a little, and broken the fuku, but good-vs-evil isn't as simple as genre would like the readers to believe. Defeating it isn't just a matter of individual heroism in the face of systemic oppression and murder.
ReplyDeleteIntertextuality is the idea that writing is not original, but rather a new arrangement of previous works. Kristeva said that text “is constructed of a mosaic of quotations; any text is the absorption and transformation of another.” I agree that texts are extremely dependent on previous works or ideas, but a transformation implies the creation of something new. Of course people are heavily influenced by what they read or hear, but the conclusions or ideas that they come up with based on these influences are their own. I think a new text or idea cannot be separated from previous texts, but to say that they are one in the same or a simple rearrangement is naïve.
ReplyDeleteDiaz's use of intertext is obvious with all his references to comic books, role-playing games, and movies. It is also present in the historical references and the idea of the fuku, which imply that the de Leon’s lives are an unfortunate intertext. These references provide a description of Oscar and the world he has created for himself regardless of the reader's prior knowledge. Not knowing an obscure anime movie can give as much information about who Oscar is as knowing what Diaz is referring to. When reading the novel, the stream of allusions might be frustrating, or even annoying for anyone who does not have the prior knowledge. I have to say that I felt left out, or that I was missing an important part of the story. But then a read a quote from a short article that said “the reader's own previous readings, experiences and position within the cultural formation also form crucial intertexts.” This made me realize that my experience with the book is completely original because of what the experiences I brought to it. It was interesting to think that the experience of the novel could change depending on what the reader knows.
The last comment was from me. Sorry.
ReplyDeleteBen Kennedy's post
ReplyDeleteThe definition I found says, "Intertextuality refers to the way in which texts gain meaning through their referencing or evocation of other texts." It places the work in a larger context, as opposed to being an isolated work. Diaz uses this technique to saturate the novel with additional meaning for both Oscar and the reader. The constant references to the genre fiction Oscar loves illustrate the level of his obsession and help draw the reader into his worldview. They also show the reader how much Yunior learned about genre fiction during his time with Oscar. It seems to me that Yunior thinks it wouldn't be a proper telling of Oscar's story without paying homage to the things that meant the most to him
Katie Richardson's Post:
ReplyDeleteFrom dictionary.com, Intertextuality is referred to as the relationship between texts: the relationship that exists between different texts, especially literary texts, or the reference in one text to others.
Diaz uses intertexts in the novel to enhance the themes and motifs throughout. By including references to things like The Twilight Zone and Lord of the Rings, Diaz further enhances the theme of the supernatural throughout the text. The belief in the fuku and the supernatural presence of the golden mongoose and the man without a face fits in with the science fiction references that interest Oscar.
I also thing intertexts work towards the theme of the individual vs. the nation, as in the final words of the novel “The beauty! The beauty!” alluding to “The horror! The horror!” from Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness. Both books deal with the theme of the individual versus outside forces, whether it is opposing the jungle itself or Trijullo’s regime in the Dominican Republic.
see http://megami-de-noir.blogspot.com/2011/02/intertextuality.html
ReplyDeleteIntertextuality refers to one text’s relationship with another text, whether it is a reimaging of the text or just a reference. It is a common feature in postmodern works.
ReplyDeleteThe Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao is full of references to different pop-culture texts. In particular, Diaz seemed to allude to the Lord of the Rings many times when describing Trujillo’s dictatorship. I think one reason that he decided to use so many allusions was to give his audience a better visual or understanding of the gravity of the situation. However, it is interesting that he chooses to compare the two when one is completely fantasy and the other is reality. Perhaps that is to remind us just how unbelievable reality can be sometimes.
These references also go along with the idea that the title character is a self-declared nerd and if he existed, would possibly be making these references himself. It makes the book feel more realistic because we all use pop-culture references in our casual, daily speak. It works with the larger themes of alienation and identity because not everyone will understand the sci-fi references, just like not everyone will understand the Spanish phrases.
“ Intertextuality is the shaping of texts' meanings by other texts. It can include an author’s borrowing and transformation of a prior text or to a reader’s referencing of one text in reading another”
ReplyDelete-Wikipeida definition
I think that the references to sci-fi and comics (LOTR, Watchmen, Fantastic 4 etc) that Diaz uses in relation to Oscar connect several themes within the novel. It re-enforces Oscar as an individual and outsider. As an individual he is the nerdy, fat kid who lacks real friends. He is an outsider in that he doesn’t associate with a lot of people, and he is not ‘truly Dominican’ nor does he exhibit true Dominican masculinity. In the same sense, his family, especially his mother is an outsider as a first generation immigrant to the US. Many of the references are in the footnotes, and as discussed in class a lot of the history is in footnotes which could possibly indicate the metaphor of the DR being a footnote to the US (an outsider). The fuku reference leads to the theme of love and violence, which is heavily connected to family. Beli, Lola and Oscar all have a series of failed relationships that they truly believe are love. Beli-Jack/Gangster, Lola-Max, Oscar-Ana/Jenni. All of these have violence associated (or passed down through the fuku?) especially Beli and Oscar.
Intertextuality is the literary theory that texts exist in the context of all other texts. This is a very vague description of the idea but it makes the most sense to me. One quote that I found that made the theory very clear to me personally is, "All the poems ever written could be imagined to be in one giant book somewhere, where they all respond to one another in extended conversation." That is a really great way to picture how works, especially poems and more openly interpretable works, effect each other and shape our individual interpretations of everything we see.
ReplyDeleteDiaz uses this pretty obviously in this book by referencing different sci-fi and fantasy texts. I think he does this to keep the reader from making a direct connection with Oscar. I am a very nerdy person and I got many of Diaz' references but even I didn't understand all of them and it kept me from relating to Oscar as much as I would expect to relate to a character that is very similar to me.
I think Diaz also uses intertextuality in a more meta way with his incorporation of history. By exposing the pasts of Beli and her family and setting them in the context of the Trujillo regime I think he creates a very vivid picture of what their lives were like and where their fear of the "fuku" came from without having to explicitly tell the reader all of the details. Our interpretation of the family history is largely shaped by the references to Trujillo and our understanding of maniacal dictators in that region of the world.
After typing "intertextuality" into the google search engine and browsing a few results, I decided I liked the wikipedia explanation as it was concise and understandable: "Intertextuality is the shaping of texts' meanings by other texts."
ReplyDeleteIn terms of Oscar Wao, Diaz employs a seemingly never ending supply of allusions and intertexts. Some of these allusions/ intertexts appear subtlety (or even perhaps go unrecognized by those of us with untrained eyes to the comic world, the Dominican Republic world and even the cultural, political and literary world) while others draw attention to themselves as footnotes. One thing I noticed is that when Diaz references something American-- be it the presidency, a location, etc.-- there is no explanation of it. What's said is said and it appears that Diaz must consider it so well known that no further mention or explanation is necessary. Perhaps here Diaz is commenting on the Western construction of the world narrative. America doesn't need an explanation or comment attached because America is the one that provides the explanations and comments. America is the one who has controlled the narrative. While paragraphs of footnotes are dedicated to delving in deeper to the Trujillo regime, a quick reference to Clinton is made and never again expounded upon.
Dovetailing nicely with that thought is the intertextuality of Diaz's Dominican Republic world. This intertext often appears in the form of footnotes or some other narrative that seems to draw the reader away from the narrative at hand. Perhaps Diaz is commenting on how the Dominican narrative is outside the narrative of Western thought. If the Western world controls the grand narrative, then everyone else is simply adding their comments.
oh man, there is a great deal of intertextuality in Diaz's book. Every time he references Lord of the Rings as a way of describing how dire or severe a situation is, Diaz is relying heavily on intertextuality. Intertextuality works similar to an allusion, but it uses the other piece as more than just a quick reference. Intertextuality uses the second book as a mirror for the book the reader has i his or her hand. It doesn't just pop up for a quick detail, it builds itself along side its reference. When Diaz compares LOTR and Santo Dominico, he is building Santo Dominico into a realm much like Maurder (spelling?). One could say it's like a crutch, but i like to think of it more as two books holding hands, letting their stories overlap.
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