[Bananafish] Roots of the ever ...

[Matthew.Raymond at Lyondell.com]

I agree with Jim, that Bananafish should definitely be read first,
without the further context of the Glass saga surrounding it.  I've
often thought that JDS sort-of out thought himself with his later
"revisionist" additions to Bananafish's context ... especially with the
ideas presented Carpenters (which I actually like) and Seymour.  

Bananafish should stand on its own merits, as an amazing short story.
JDS himself used to repeat the mantra that everything you need to know
about his stories are in the stories.  I think this should be taken to
heart (Valentines Day pun intended).   :)

I also like Daniel's analysis of the elevator scene, with an emphasis on
the feet.  This is a scene that has perplexed me for some time now.
What the hell is really going through Seymour's mind in this scene?  Is
he really crazy (I honestly don't think so), but if not, then what?

Matthew 



-----Original Message-----
From: bananafish-bounces at lists.bway.net
[mailto:bananafish-bounces at lists.bway.net] On Behalf Of James Rovira
Sent: Wednesday, February 14, 2007 8:39 AM
To: bananafish list
Subject: Re: [Bananafish] Roots of the ever ...

I wouldn't be so sure the puns were unintended....especially the first
one.  Maybe the second one.

But, interesting post, Daniel.  So Seymour would be a fallen seraph?

I think we should read B-Fish first as if the rest of the Glass saga
didn't exist.  What's going on in his head?  The stuff about uncovered
feet works here.  I think when we step in to the puzzle the story
presents us, then we step into the Glass saga -- reading B-fish
retrospectively and in the light of all the problems the story presents
on its own.

I think it was only made part of the Saga retrospectively.

Jim
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