Close Analysis of the Wasp Factory Pages 230-236

Close analysis of The Wasp Factory pages 230-236

language - repetition of flames, long descriptions (supernatural + revenant)

structure - lack of speech

links to other texts - experimentation and Frankenstein

This section of the book can first be seen as gothic due to Banks' use of gothic language. Frank describes his father as "monstrous" so thus draws a direct link between supernatural beings and his father. The use of the word monstrous both makes Franks father seem different to that a normal human, but it also reflects his father's monstrous actions when choosing to experiment on Frank and himself. Monsters have been used on a wider gothic context in novels such as Dracula, and Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, and act as a catalyst for haunting and destruction. Monsters generally can be considered as the Unknown, beyond our normal experiences. The Unknown can be a physical place, or it can be more spiritual or supernatural. This also links to ideas on obscurity, a fear of the Unknown. Thus, the description of Frank's father as monstrous helps to convey key gothic tropes such as obscurity and the Unknown in order to make this passage excessively gothic.

Banks uses repetition of fire imagery in this passage, coupled with the repetition of screams.  Fire consumes, warms, and illuminates, but can also bring pain and death; thus, it's symbolic meaning varies depending upon the context of its use. In The Wasp Factory fire is used as the predominant symbol of hell and pain. By emphasising flames and fore in this passage, Banks is able to draw connotations to the demonic and gothic qualities that both Frank and Eric both have. Eric is seen herding a vast array of sheep on fire, thus only backing this point up further. The fact that a herd of burning sheep are running towards the house can also be seen as an example of the uncanny, something that is seemingly relatable but with a gothic edge. The screaming also seen in this passage comes as a result of the fire, and further highlights the destructive capabilities of fire. Fire can be seen as a particularly gothic feature due to its unpredictability and links to death and hell.