"Justice, enacted not these human laws"
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I feel like every few months, I get on an app to talk about my undying love for Antigone. Here we are again, this time to gush over poet Anne Carson's compassionate and emotional translation.
Antigo nick is a thought-provoking and poetic retelling of Sophocles' classic tragedy. With gut-wrenching lines like, "You ask would I have done it for a husband or a child my answer is no I would not. A husband or a child can be replaced but who can grow me a new brother."
Like I'm ripping my hair out? screaming??? Rotting. That was her brother. She would do it again.
The narrative follows Antigone, the daughter of Oedipus, as she defies societal norms by burying her brother Polyneices against the orders of King Creon. Through this retelling, Carson delves into themes of identity, morality, and the conflict between personal convictions and governmental authority.
I am deeply moved by Carson's translation and believe she deserves recognition as one of the most esteemed translators in the literary world.
In real life, we can draw parallels to Antigone's unwavering commitment to her beliefs. Despite her sister's disagreement, Antigone remained steadfast in her actions, choosing to defy oppressive systems and laws in pursuit of what she believed to be just.
Books like "Antigonick" challenge us to draw our own conclusions and perhaps even take action based on our newfound insights. It shows us the power of grace and understanding to the people but shows the strength of defiance to unjust leaders, systems, and laws. That neutrality is usually just cowardice or compliance.
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