Customer Reviews

Articulating the Elephant Man: Joseph Merrick and His Interpreters (Parallax: Re-visions of Culture and Society)

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I found this book invaluable in my research on the play, The Elephant Man, by Bernard Pomerance. It is objective in ways that most work on this subject is not. I highly recommend it.

Joseph Merrick's life has become so much fact and myth intertwined that it's hard to separate one from the other. This work takes a clear-eyed look at the real Merrick as well as the interpretations of him in books, plays and film. A starting point is the memoir by Sir Frederick Treves, who brought Merrick from the dusty annals of a medical journal into the spotlight of literary fame.

Readers of Joseph Merrick's story often respond with pity, horror, compassion and downright idolatry. The authors take a long look at the wise-cracking,cynical Merrick presented by Bernard Pomerance in his play, "The Elephant Man." Despite his sharp wit and desire for women, Merrick exudes an innocence and artistic gift that becomes a metaphor for humanity's search for God. It's a heavy burden for this theatrical work to convey, but it's mostly successful.

The authors also describe lesser-known, sometimes bizarre plays that pre-date the famous Pomerance one. They go into great detail about the David Lynch film interpretation of "John" Merrick, based on the book by psychologist Ashley Montagu. Although the film is melodramatic and downright weepy at points, it leaves the viewer with a profound affection for Treves, Merrick, and the compassionate staff of the London Hospital.

A remarkable book of poetry is also mentioned: "Words For Elephant Man," by Kenneth Sherman. His view of Merrick is more caustic than the historical Joseph but moving and tender nonetheless.

I feel this work is a thoughtful, original interpretation in itself and gives full credit to Joseph Merrick as a dignified, gentle man who has taught us about patience, endurance and the ability to love one's fellow man.

It was like reading a high school term paper. The book that was used for a constant source is a better option.