Introduction: Understanding the Significance of "We Are Completely Beside Ourselves"
Rachel Kushner’s novel, We Are Completely Beside Ourselves, is a compelling and thought-provoking work that delves into complex themes of family, identity, memory, and the peculiarities of human and animal relationships. Published in 2013, the book quickly garnered critical acclaim for its innovative structure and emotionally resonant storytelling. At its core, the novel challenges readers to reconsider notions of what it means to be human and the moral implications of scientific experimentation. This article provides an extensive analysis of the novel’s plot, themes, characters, literary significance, and the questions it raises about ethics and identity.
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Overview of the Novel
Plot Summary
We Are Completely Beside Ourselves follows the story of Rosemary Cooke, a college student who reflects on her childhood and the unusual circumstances that shaped her family. The narrative unfolds through Rosemary’s perspective, revealing a series of memories that are sometimes fragmented and non-linear. Central to her story is her sister Fern, and an extraordinary element: Fern was raised alongside a chimpanzee named Rosemary, acting as a sister figure in their family.
The novel's plot gradually reveals that Fern was part of a scientific experiment aimed at understanding the emotional and social capacities of primates. The experiment’s secrecy and the subsequent trauma it caused are pivotal to the story, exposing the ethical dilemmas surrounding animal research and its impact on human relationships.
As Rosemary’s memories surface, she grapples with feelings of loss, guilt, and confusion, attempting to piece together her past to understand her present. The narrative’s structure mimics the process of memory retrieval, often blurring the lines between fact and fiction, which enhances the reader’s engagement with the story’s emotional depth.
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Major Themes Explored in the Novel
1. Family and Identity
One of the most profound themes in We Are Completely Beside Ourselves is the exploration of family dynamics and personal identity. Rosemary’s relationship with her sister Fern is complicated by the secret of Fern’s existence and her subsequent removal from the family. The novel prompts readers to consider how family shapes our sense of self and how secrets can influence personal development.
The theme extends to questions about what constitutes a family: biological ties, emotional bonds, or shared experiences. The novel challenges traditional notions by emphasizing that family can be fluid, fragile, and sometimes built on unspoken truths.
2. Ethical Dilemmas in Scientific Research
The novel raises critical questions about the morality of scientific experimentation on animals, especially primates. The project involving Fern was intended to uncover insights into human cognition but resulted in ethical controversies regarding animal rights and welfare.
Kushner examines the moral costs of such research, highlighting the emotional suffering inflicted on Fern and the unintended consequences for the human characters involved. This theme encourages readers to reflect on the responsibilities of scientists and society in balancing scientific progress with moral integrity.
3. Memory and Trauma
Memory plays a crucial role in the narrative’s structure and theme. Rosemary’s recollections are often fragmented, mirroring the way trauma affects memory. The novel explores how memories can be unreliable, repressed, or altered over time, and how confronting painful truths is essential for healing.
The story emphasizes that understanding one’s past is vital for self-awareness, but it can also be a source of pain. Kushner invites readers to consider how our memories shape our identity and the importance of confronting uncomfortable truths.
4. Human-Animal Relationships
The relationship between humans and animals is at the heart of the novel. Fern’s bond with Rosemary and the other characters exemplifies the emotional intelligence of primates and raises questions about empathy, companionship, and the boundaries between species.
The novel challenges the reader to think about how humans project emotions onto animals and vice versa. It also examines the ethical implications of keeping animals in research or captivity and the recognition of their sentience.
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Character Analysis
Rosemary Cooke
Rosemary is the novel’s narrator and protagonist. Her introspective nature and fragmented memories serve as a lens through which the story unfolds. As she unravels her past, Rosemary’s character embodies themes of loss, resilience, and the search for identity. Her journey reflects the struggle to reconcile her childhood experiences with her present self.
Fern
Fern, the chimpanzee, is a central figure whose existence challenges perceptions of intelligence and emotion. Raised as a sister to Rosemary, Fern’s life symbolizes innocence and the consequences of scientific experimentation. Her character prompts ethical discussions about the treatment of animals in research.
Other Family Members
- Mother: A complex figure whose silence and secrets influence the family’s dynamics.
- Father: A scientist involved in the research project, representing the scientific community’s moral ambiguities.
- Other siblings: Their roles highlight different responses to the family secret and the impact of trauma.
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Literary Style and Structure
Non-Linear Narrative
Kushner employs a non-linear storytelling approach, with memories and present-day reflections interwoven throughout the novel. This technique effectively mimics the way humans recall past events—often out of order and influenced by emotion.
Use of Unreliable Narrator
Rosemary’s perspective is subjective, and her memories are not always accurate. This unreliable narration invites readers to question the truth and engage actively in piecing together the story.
Symbolism and Motifs
- The chimpanzee Fern: Represents innocence, scientific ethics, and the blurred boundaries of human and animal intelligence.
- Memory fragments: Symbolize the fragmented nature of trauma and the process of healing.
- Secrets and silence: Highlight the destructive power of repression and the importance of truth.
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Critical Reception and Cultural Impact
We Are Completely Beside Ourselves received widespread praise for its originality and emotional depth. Critics lauded Kushner’s innovative narrative style and her ability to tackle complex ethical issues without didacticism. The novel has been praised for its thought-provoking content, compelling characters, and literary craftsmanship.
The book also sparked discussions about animal rights, scientific ethics, and mental health. It has been used in academic settings to explore themes of morality, memory, and human-animal relationships.
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Questions and Ethical Considerations
The novel raises several important questions that resonate beyond its pages:
- Is scientific progress justified if it causes harm to sentient beings?
- How do secrets and repressed memories influence personal and collective identities?
- What responsibilities do humans have toward animals used in research?
- Can trauma be truly healed, or is it an ongoing part of our identity?
By confronting these questions, Kushner’s novel encourages ongoing reflection and dialogue about morality, empathy, and the human condition.
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Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of "We Are Completely Beside Ourselves"
We Are Completely Beside Ourselves is more than just a novel; it is a mirror held up to society’s ethical dilemmas, our understanding of family, and the intricate nature of memory. Kushner’s masterful storytelling invites readers to reconsider their perceptions of intelligence, empathy, and the boundaries between species. Its themes remain relevant in contemporary debates about animal rights, scientific ethics, and the importance of truth and reconciliation within families and communities.
Whether you are a lover of literary fiction, interested in ethical issues, or seeking a profound exploration of human and animal consciousness, this novel offers rich insights and compelling questions that linger long after the last page is turned. Its enduring impact lies in its ability to challenge, provoke, and inspire reflection on what it truly means to be human.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of 'We Are Completely Beside Ourselves'?
The novel explores themes of family, identity, memory, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding animal experimentation and human relationships.
Who is the author of 'We Are Completely Beside Ourselves'?
The book was written by Karen Joy Fowler, published in 2013.
What is the significance of the title 'We Are Completely Beside Ourselves'?
The title reflects the novel's exploration of disorientation, loss, and the unpredictable nature of human and animal relationships, emphasizing how characters are often 'beside themselves' emotionally or psychologically.
How does the novel address the ethical issues related to animal testing?
The story critically examines the moral implications of using animals in scientific research, highlighting the emotional and psychological impact on both animals and humans involved.
Has 'We Are Completely Beside Ourselves' received any notable awards or recognition?
Yes, Karen Joy Fowler's novel was a finalist for the 2014 National Book Award and has been widely praised for its compelling narrative and thought-provoking themes.
What narrative perspective is used in 'We Are Completely Beside Ourselves'?
The novel is narrated from the perspective of Rosemary, the protagonist, offering a deeply personal and introspective view of the story and its complex themes.
