Dystopian reflections on identity and control in Yoko Ogawa's The Memory Police and its reflection in Spanish-language dystopian literature

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31637/epsir-2024-1468

Keywords:

dystopia; memory; identity; authoritarian control; comparative literature; literature review; manipulation; repression.

Abstract

Introduction: Yoko Ogawa's The Memory Police is a dystopian novel that explores memory loss and the disappearance of everyday objects. Published in Japan in 1994 and translated into English in 2021, the work reflects on sensory perception and existence, linking mental health and philosophy. Methodology: A qualitative and comparative approach will be used, including textual analysis and a literature review on dystopia. The novel's themes, characters and narrative structure will be examined, as well as a thematic comparison with current events. Results: The analysis shows how the novel uses dystopian elements to comment on the human condition, the loss of collective memory, and the dangers of authoritarian control. It also reflects contemporary concerns about truth, memory and identity. Discussion: Ogawa's work invites reflection on the fragility of perception and the ability of literature to preserve humanity in times of crisis, addressing issues such as “fabricated realities” and authoritarian control. Conclusions: The novel offers a hopeful vision of human resilience through empathy and human bonds, which are essential to counteract oblivion and dehumanization. 

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Author Biography

Pilar Garcés García, University of Valladolid

Pilar Garcés García, accredited professor at the University of Valladolid. PhD in English philology and diploma in German philology. Master in International Relations and Japanese Culture and Society. Professor at UVa and USAL in Spain. Visiting professor at international universities. Research interests: discourse analysis, travel literature, institutional and diplomatic relations between Spain and Great Britain and Japanese literature and society. Director of the scientific journal ES (UVa) (2011-2014). Co-director of the journal Mirai (2014-2019), UCM. Management: Secretary General, Vice-Rector for International, and Institutional Relations, Vice-Counselor for Universities and Research of the Junta de Castilla y León and Commissioner for Science and Technology (2015-2022).

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Published

2024-10-07

How to Cite

Garcés García, P. (2024). Dystopian reflections on identity and control in Yoko Ogawa’s The Memory Police and its reflection in Spanish-language dystopian literature. European Public & Social Innovation Review, 9, 1–16. https://doi.org/10.31637/epsir-2024-1468

Issue

Vol. 9 (2024)

Section

INNOVATING IN LANGUAGES, LANGUAGES AND LITERATURE: NEW NARRATIVES

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Copyright (c) 2024 Pilar Garcés García

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