Interregnal Identity Processes: : A Phenomenological Reading of Gordimer’s July’s People

Sammanfattning: In this critical reading of Nadine Gordimer’s July’s People, the study investigates how different power structures affect the points of view and identity processes of the novel’s main characters. S. Ahmed’s (2009) conception of “Whiteness,” as a means of orienting in the world, is discussed and used as an interpretive tool when reading July’s People. In particular, the ongoing and unfinished history of objects and bodies represented in the novel and how these relate to whiteness and the process of “othering” is explored. Furthermore, the privileged viewpoint or position attached to whiteness as a narrative orientation is related to thoughts on pedagogy. Moreover, it is stressed how in the construction of identity, language and dialogue are fundamental parts of a complex process. Finally, it is argued that the role of literature in this process is potentially emancipating.