In the novel, Heart of Darkness, the heart of darkness is the African jungle. The darkness refers to the fact that the jungle is considered "uncivilized," as well as it being literally dark. However the darkness also demonstrates that people become blind to what they are actually doing while inside the heart of darkness and may have a difficult time acting truly morally.
Hearts of darkness occur in more places than the African Jungle in Conrad's novel. Austin could be considered a very nearby and contemporary heart of darkness. There are several organizations in place to help better the Austin community, especially the youth. When people who live in Austin create these organizations, they have a better idea of what is actually beneficial to the community. They can also interact with the members of the Austin community in a way that does not make these people feel bad about themselves or less than another human.
However, when people from privileged areas nearby come in to Austin to help, it may give off a different vibe. Although these people come into the community wanting to help, they are essentially trying to make people in Austin more like them. Although the circumstances in Austin are not as severe as the ones in Heart of Darkness, those who participate in organizations led by "outsiders" to the community could feel slightly dehumanized as they become more aware that their lifestyle isn't considered as "good" or "civil" as the lifestyles of people in suburbs or nicer parts of Chicago. There is also the idea that people who come into Austin to help the community are simply helping to improve their city and make it safer for their own good, more than for the good of those who actually live in the dangerous area. It is not unlikely that many are blind to their true intentions or to how their actions affect those living in the "heart of darkness."
Hey I really like your post. I blogged about the same topic more or less. I feel there are people who are blind to the tragedies in the city because they make sure they personally have it right instead of additionally attempting to analyze why certain violence is happening. It's a crazy topic and it's very similar to the book.
ReplyDeleteHey I really like your post. I blogged about the same topic more or less. I feel there are people who are blind to the tragedies in the city because they make sure they personally have it right instead of additionally attempting to analyze why certain violence is happening. It's a crazy topic and it's very similar to the book.
ReplyDeleteI agree about the dehumanizing aspect of someone coming in to help and acting more "civil" than the people who leave in Austin. The view a lot of people in the suburbs have is messed up. and it makes much more sense to have people who live there running the organizations.
ReplyDeleteCool thoughts! If people from more affluent suburbs volunteer to "improve" Austin, are they doing it for the right reasons? Is is helpful, or is it slightly dehumanizing? You bring up great questions, and great points.
ReplyDeleteGreat post! It was really interesting and so very true. I agree and think its a great example of a contemporary heart of darkness. I also thought the title was really great and interesting.
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