Before diving into the story, let’s (attempt to) briefly highlight some key themes and concepts essential for understanding James Joyce’s masterpiece.
Cyclical Nature:
One of the central themes of Finnegans Wake is the cyclical nature of existence, inspired by Italian philosopher Giambattista Vico’s The New Science (La Scienza Nuova). Joyce’s admiration for Vico’s theory of recurring historical cycles informs the novel’s structure and content.
This cyclical nature is most evident in the book’s unique design: the first word, “riverrun,” continues the final sentence of the novel, creating an endless loop. The closing line reads:
“A way a lone a last loved a long the riverrun, past Eve and Adam’s, from swerve of shore to bend of bay, brings us by a commodius vicus of recirculation back to Howth Castle and Environs.”
The circular structure underscores themes of death and rebirth, the rise and fall of humanity, and the repetition of familial and historical cycles throughout the narrative.
Non Linear Structure:
Finnegans Wake reads like a dream: fragmented, fluid, and non-linear. Unlike traditional novels with a clear and orderly plot, this work unfolds in fragmented, dreamlike sequences that defy straightforward interpretation.
The narrative shifts between voices, perspectives, and personas, often with no clear transitions.
Characters morph into one another, and their roles blur, making the experience surreal and abstract.
Joyce’s use of multilingual puns, portmanteau words, and experimental language reflects the subconscious mind, where thoughts and images flow unpredictably.
This structure encourages readers to focus on the rhythm, humor, and creativity of the language rather than searching for a conventional plot.
Core Characters and Their Roles:
While the plot is elusive, there are central figures and themes to guide readers:
HCE: Humphrey Chimpden Earwicker
HCE is the central figure, an archetypal everyman whose identity shifts throughout the novel. He represents universal human experiences and mythic cycles:
Universal Symbolism: HCE’s initials stand for “Here Comes Everybody,” reflecting his role as a symbol of collective humanity.
Roles: He is a Dublin publican whose fall from grace—after a scandal in Phoenix Park—leads to gossip and myth-making, blending themes of sin, guilt, and redemption.
Mythological Ties: HCE is associated with Adam, Noah, Finn MacCool, and other figures, emphasizing his archetypal nature.
ALP: Anna Livia Plurabelle
ALP, HCE’s wife, symbolizes femininity, nature, and continuity. She is closely associated with rivers, particularly the River Liffey in Dublin. Her narrative mirrors the journey of a river, symbolizing the cycle of life, death, and renewal:
Themes: ALP embodies nurturing and reconciliation, mediating conflicts within her family.
The Letter: She is the source of a mysterious letter, a testament to HCE’s story and a symbol of communication and historical preservation.
Mythical Archetypes: ALP represents Mother Earth, Isis, and all rivers and women, embodying universal femininity and renewal.
Final Thoughts:
Reading Finnegans Wake is like experiencing a vivid dream. It challenges conventional storytelling by blending myth, history, and language into a kaleidoscope of meaning. Keep these themes in mind, and let the text guide you through its cyclical, non-linear journey.
References:
I wanted to take the time to point out two podcast which are helping me tackle this challenge:
My friends over at Moon Street Media are in the midst of a cold read on Finneganes Wake. Go check them out at https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wake-cold-reading-finnegans-wake/id1746762492
Also One Little Goat Theatre Company is doing a theatrical, if you will, read of the Wake. Go check them out at https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/james-joyces-finnegans-wake/id1743344183
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