Uncanny Elements In Where Are You Going Where Have You Been

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Uncanny means a sense of estrangement in a place showing something which is threatening and tempting to outlay in the bounds of the intimate. It is signified in the Sigmund Freud’s story which elaborates on the modern human condition (Freud, 1955). Freud describes more about the psychological developments and its effects to human beings. Similarly, uncanny elements are also demonstrated in the epic of the Joyce Carol Oates’ Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been, which is illustrated by the character, Arnold Friend. Oates addresses how psychological challenges are brought on by an obsessive love and uncanny habits. Arnold Friend approaches Connie and requests for her to join him for a ride. In the midst of their conversation, Connie realizes …show more content…

Obsession is a form of imagination that keeps preoccupying someone’s mind. Friend is a dangerous figure in the eyes of Connie by threatening her and demanding for love with his mysterious appearance. Friend appears to look like a demonic figure one would see in a nightmare, barely resembling a human being. Oates states, “… he had shaggy, shabby black hair that looked crazy as a wig and he was grinning at her”. Therefore, his real character is not yet proven or clarified. Initially, Arnold uses polite language and speaks to the girl calmly convincing to get in the car with him (Oates, 1966). In their conversation, Arnold’s plans seem to be more threatening and ambiguous, intending to harm Connie’s family if she dares to make a call to the police. Obsessive love that Arnold Friend has to the girl makes him crazy such that he is unable to leave her behind. He uses all technicalities to absorb the girl by calling her love names. The author states, "Just for a ride, Connie sweetheart” and "Don'tcha know it's Sunday all day? And honey, no matter who you were with last night, today you're with Arnold Friend and don't you forget it! Maybe you better step out here". By writing all of this, the author is able to build a very strong obsessive connection between Connie and

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