Introduction:
“The Grass is Singing” by Doris Lessing (1919-2013) is indeed an evergreen novel. Throughout the novel, the failed marriage between Mary and Dick Turner is portrayed as a central theme. Here are some key points to understand the story from this perspective,
The introduction of the marriage:
The novel begins by introducing the marriage between Mary Turner, a white woman, and Dick Turner, a farmer in Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). At first, their marriage appears conventional, but underlying tensions and issues become apparent as the story progresses.
More Notes: The Grass is Singing
Communication breakdown:
The relationship between Mary and Dick suffers from a severe breakdown in communication. They fail to express their feelings and desires, leading to misunderstandings, frustration, and emotional distance between them. So the novelist writes,
“They did not talk. They could not talk to each other any more.”
Cultural and racial differences:
Mary and Dick’s marriage is also influenced by cultural and racial differences. Mary, a city woman, struggles to adapt to the harsh farming life in rural Rhodesia. Her sense of isolation and alienation further contribute to the deterioration of their relationship.
Gender roles and expectations:
The novel explores traditional gender roles and expectations prevalent in society at the time. Mary is expected to fulfill domestic responsibilities and be a supportive wife, while Dick embodies the dominant and controlling male figure. These gender roles contribute to the power dynamics within their marriage.
Infidelity and resentment:
Mary’s dissatisfaction with her marriage leads her to an affair with Moses, their black servant. This infidelity serves as a catalyst for the ultimate downfall of their relationship. Dick discovers the affair and becomes resentful and hostile towards Mary, further deepening the divide between them.
Escalating tensions and violence:
As the marriage continues to disintegrate, tensions rise, and violence enters the picture. Dick becomes increasingly abusive towards Mary, physically and emotionally, as he spirals into alcoholism. The atmosphere of fear and violence intensifies the sense of their failed marriage.
Financial Struggles:
The couple faces financial difficulties due to Dick’s failing farming ventures. It adds strain to their relationship. Lessing remarks rightly,
“The money was slipping away, and there was no way of earning any more.”
Trapped and suffocated:
Mary feels trapped in her marriage, suffocated by the lack of love, understanding, and fulfillment. The isolation of farm life exacerbates her despair, leading to a psychological breakdown. This breakdown ultimately leads to a tragic outcome. The novel opens with the revelation of Mary’s death, and the story explores the events that led to this devastating conclusion. The breakdown of their marriage and the inability to bridge their differences contribute to the tragic ending.
Reflection on failed marriage:
Through the lens of Mary and Dick’s failed marriage, the novel presents a broader reflection on the complexities and challenges of human relationships, particularly in the context of colonial society. Their initial love and affection for each other fade away, leaving emptiness and indifference behind. So the writer frankly declares,
“She no longer loved him. She had not loved him for a long time, but now she knew how very much she had stopped loving him”
Conclusion:
“The Grass is Singing” portrays a marriage that unravels due to a combination of cultural, racial, and personal factors. It highlights the fragility of relationships and the impact of societal norms on individuals’ lives.
