EXPLORING DYNAMICS OF OSCILLATION AND NAVIGATION: A METAMODERNIST ANALYSIS OF ELLMANN’S DUCKS, NEWBURYPORT

Abstract

This study aims to explore the metamodern dynamics of oscillation and navigation as presented in Ellmann’s (2019) novel Ducks, Newburyport. The study uses meta modernism as theoretical lens in general and notions regarding oscillation and navigation in particular as propounded by Vermeulen and Akker's (2010) in their article Notes on Meta modernism. Using stream of consciousness technique, the novelist navigates the unnamed protagonist’s inner reality which is intricately intertwined between sincerity and sarcasm, optimism and despair. The study focuses on the oscillation that is embodied in the protagonist's decisions, her voyage through these oscillations, and her navigation through narrative terrain. The findings of the study reveal the narrative shifts between themes, capturing the intricacies of contemporary life and the interaction between introspective thoughts and societal issues. The findings of the study further reveal that the protagonist of the novel navigates her identity and the complexities of self-discovery in metamodern setting. Ultimately, the novel’s meta modernist strategies underscore the instability and multiplicity of contemporary experience, challenging readers to reevaluate their assumptions about narrative, identity and reality.