The novel Grass is Singing is the story of a failed marriage
The Grass Is Singing is a notable literary work by Doris Lessing. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of The Grass Is Singing.
Answer
The novel Grass is Singing is the story of a failed marriage.
“The Grass is Singing” by Doris Lessing (1919-2013) is an evergreen novel. The failed marriage between Mary and Dick Turner is a central theme throughout the novel. The novel tells the story of a marriage that falls apart. It describes the complications of relationships and the reasons for the breakdown of relationships.
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.
Communication breakdown: In this novel, we see the relationship between Mary and Dick suffers from a bitter 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 disintegration of their relationship.
Gender Inequality and Expectations: The novel explores gender discrimination and expectations prevailing in the society of the time. In this play, Mary is said to perform domestic duties and be a supportive wife. But it is expected that Dick will be the dominant and controlling male. This gender inequality accelerates the failure of their marriages.
Infidelity and resentment: Mary’s dissatisfaction with her marriage leads her to an affair with Moses, their black servant. This affair catalyzes the ultimate downfall of their relationship. Dick discovers the affair and becomes resentful and hostile towards Mary, further deepening their divide.
Escalating tensions and violence: As the marriage disintegrates, tensions rise, and violence enters the picture. Dick becomes increasingly abusive towards Mary, physically and emotionally, as he spirals into alcoholism. The atmosphere of disturbance and violence intensifies the sense of