Simultaneity of the Senses in the “Sirens” Chapter: Intermediality and Synaesthesia in James Joyce’s Ulysses
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: This article explores intermediality and synaesthesia in James Joyce’s Ulysses, particularly focusing on the “Sirens” chapter. It examines how Joyce, akin to Johann Sebastian Bach’s innovative musical techniques and Richard Wagner’s Gesamtkunstwerk concept, weaves a rich tapestry of sensory experiences through his narrative. Joyce’s use of intermedial techniques transcends traditional literary forms, creating a synaesthetic experience that blends visual and auditory elements. With this approach, he manages to convey a sense of simultaneity and polyphony that resembles a musical harmony, which is demonstrated through a detailed analysis of the structure, motifs, and thematic elements of the chapter. The article highlights how Joyce’s own innovative narrative techniques mirror musical composition techniques by Bach and Wagner, particularly in their use of fragmented polyphony, Klangfarbenmelodie, the alliterative preparation of words, leitmotifs, and thematic development, offering a reading experience that challenges and expands the boundaries of literary expression.
Source: Open Cultural Studies
Author: Elisabeth Frank
Institution: Universität Innsbruck
Language: English
Topic: Giambattista Vico and Joyce
Subfield: History and Philosophy of Science
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $541
OpenAlex ID: W4402008332