Another interesting note on the film…the version of Sappho’s ancient “Love poem” from the scene on the bridge, is a more recent translation (1966). The poem has been translated hundreds of times and I have often wondered why the films’ writer (Hossein Amini) chose such a modern and updated translation. I now believe that the line, “…nothing is left of me” perfectly encapsulates the traumatic and transformative nature of Jude’s love for Sue and the inevitable end that is coming. Godlike the man who sits at her side, who watches and catches that laughter which (softly) tears me to tatters: nothing is left of me, each time I see her, . . . tongue numbed; arms, legs melting, on fire; drum drumming in ears; head- lights gone black. Translated by Peter Whigham (1966)
Spot on about Jude pursuing stone masonry to “create something lasting and enduring.” Highly symbolic and the idea of accomplishment, permanence and ‘making one’s mark’ is a strong theme throughout the book.
People are alienated from society at different times and different places for different reasons and Hardy will forever be the patron saint of those who are and ever will be. A swell in-depth look at a bleak novel. It’s so bleak, in fact, it’s nearly bathetic. But the bleakness is nothing more than Hardy’s rage at the restrictions imposed on him by Victorian society.
Another interesting note on the film…the version of Sappho’s ancient “Love poem” from the scene on the bridge, is a more recent translation (1966). The poem has been translated hundreds of times and I have often wondered why the films’ writer (Hossein Amini) chose such a modern and updated translation. I now believe that the line, “…nothing is left of me” perfectly encapsulates the traumatic and transformative nature of Jude’s love for Sue and the inevitable end that is coming.
Godlike the man who
sits at her side, who
watches and catches
that laughter
which (softly) tears me
to tatters: nothing is
left of me, each time
I see her,
. . . tongue numbed; arms, legs
melting, on fire; drum
drumming in ears; head-
lights gone black.
Translated by Peter Whigham (1966)
Spot on about Jude pursuing stone masonry to “create something lasting and enduring.” Highly symbolic and the idea of accomplishment, permanence and ‘making one’s mark’ is a strong theme throughout the book.
Thank you so much! this video is so helpful.
People are alienated from society at different times and different places for different reasons and Hardy will forever be the patron saint of those who are and ever will be. A swell in-depth look at a bleak novel. It’s so bleak, in fact, it’s nearly bathetic. But the bleakness is nothing more than Hardy’s rage at the restrictions imposed on him by Victorian society.
S7ab l s5 lay yser likom🙏