CerebralMix 2015-02-22: Ulysses Episode 8

We’re up to the eighth episode in our survey of the relationships between sound and narrative with Ulysses on The CerebralMix. This show present the first two of the three parts of the Sirens episode from the novel.

In the Odyssey the Sirens section was about navigating through waters where the enchanting voices of the mythical creatures lured many ships to be dashed upon the rocks, killing the sailors on board. Odysseus had himself strapped to a mast so he could listen to the Siren’s song, without being able to change course and cause the ship to be ruined. The remaining crew members plug their ears so they cannot her the song and fall into temptation.

In Ulysses, Sirens is an examination of the tensions and attractions between mean and women. From the teasing and taunting of the barmaids in the Ormond bar and restaurant, to the prostitute Bloom had an encounter with in the past. To the meeting between Molly and Boylan that happens off-stage in this section of the novel.

The majority of the action takes place in the Ormond bar, with several people singing opera and nationalistic songs, which serve as another representation of the Siren’s song from the Odyssey.

Also of note: there is a subtle shift in the narrative of this section. A possible foreshadowing of the forthcoming change in the story, where the narrative itself becomes and important aspect of the story.

Readings

In the past I’ve actually included the text of the poems or stories as part of the show notes. In the case of Ulysses that would be a bit on the incredibly heavy side. Instead I have produced a guide: CerebralMix Ulysses Series that provides the references that I am using, along with a show guide to the whole broadcast of this series.