Throughout Disgrace, Wicomb utilizes perspective heavily to highlight the stark contrast in mentalities and livelihoods of the main characters, especially Fiona and Grace. Grace is oftentimes seen overanalyzing the most incredibly minute things- obsessing over the mannerisms of Fiona and using them to justify her stereotypes and entitlement over her. Yet, Fiona is simply asking Grace a question. She persists and goes on and on in these mental acrobatics over a simple question about her appearance. I believe this is all rooted in insecurity stemming from her mother, and highlights how people may live through their entire lives cursing the world for their misfortune. They were given a bad hand, and now must rebel against it with the only straightforward mindset they’ve known- insecurity. Rather than tackling problems and conflicts directly, it seems that certain people maneuver around these interactions and are constantly in a state of rationality- why is this other person above me, and how can I prove myself to them.
Wow Dylan thank you for bringing that perspective. I completely agree with you. Grace is insecure and this goes back to her childhood, her marginalization as a black woman, and her social status. Every time Fiona asks her a simple question, Grace tries to comprehend why she’s involved in such a conversation. Grace is struggling with her own identity and self-esteem because of the years of oppression and abuse she has experienced. From her mother to the police at the beach, she has always been rejected and told that she is insufficient. I believe that Fiona’s admiration for and interest in Grace’s life is expected from a foreigner. Yet, Grace struggles to believe that she is capable and worthy of being involved in certain discussions because of her background and struggles.