Welcome to another episode of Literature Done Juicy! I'm Jade, your host, and in this episode, we dive deep into the intricate and mind-bending world of "House of Leaves" by Mark Z. Danielewski. In the second season of our show, we're exploring novels with lost protagonists, and this is the third episode in this season.
"House of Leaves" is notorious for its complexity, featuring layers upon layers of narrative and countless theories. The episode is a lengthy one, but we believe that discussing this novel in detail is a must. If you're intrigued by the mysterious and the unconventional, you're in for a treat!
We begin by delving into the plot and navigate the novel's intricate layout and diverse fonts, we explore how the author uses these elements to create a uniquely immersive reading experience. The story is full of footnotes, real and fictional, which lead to a Reddit-like forum about the novel, adding an extra layer of intrigue.
We explore themes of descent into madness and the uncanny, linking the story to the psychological struggles of the characters. We draw connections between "House of Leaves" and video games like "Control" and "Anatomy," which use similar techniques to evoke an eerie atmosphere and labyrinthine structures.
On top of that we discuss Leviticus, Greek and Norse Mythology as well as famous photographer Kevin Carter.
If you're ready for a deep dive into the labyrinthine world of "House of Leaves" and enjoy uncovering hidden layers in literature, this episode is for you. Join us as we explore the uncanny, the intricate narrative, and the mind-bending complexities of this literary masterpiece. Don't miss it!
Sources
“A maze meant… What did it mean?” The Labyrinth Motif and the Reader’s Response in Mark Z. Danielewski’s House of Leaves - https://orbi.uliege.be/bitstream/2268/242678/1/The Labyrinth Motif and the Reader's Response in Mark Z. Danielewski's House of Leaves - M.A. Thesis.pdf
Anatomy Videogame - https://kittyhorrorshow.itch.io/anatomy
Control, Anatomy, and the Legacy of the Haunted House - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mexs39y0Imw&ab_channel=JacobGeller
Control Videogame Wiki - https://control.fandom.com/wiki/Control
Diving into the House of Leaves Secrets and Connections - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=du2R47kMuDE&ab_channel=DubiousConsumption
Exploration #6: The Uncanny in Mark Z. Danieleweski’s House of Leaves - https://www.imageandnarrative.be/inarchive/uncanny/nelebemong.htm?source=post_page
Haunted House - An Interview with Mark Z. Danieleweski - http://spinelessbooks.com/mccaffery/originals/critique.pdf
Hauntingly Sweet: Home as Labyrinth and Hospitality in House of Leaves -
TW and SPOILERS for all episodes, listen at your own discretion.
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Thanks for tuning in to 'Literature Done Juicy'. Join us next time as we continue to explore the world of fiction through a refreshing lens. Until then, stay juicy!