The metaphysics of play in Joan Harris’ novel “Gentlemen and players”

Abstract

The article examines the ways of actualising play in Joan Harris’s novel “Gentlemen and Players” at the level of poetics and elucidates the philosophical concept of play in the work, particularly in its metaphysical and anthropological aspects. In 20th century philosophical thought, play is often seen as a phenomenon that resists rational explanation, characterised as a creative element and a strategic choice by the author. By exploring play in the context of human existence and linking it to imagination, fantasy, and freedom, we uncover the more profound metaphysical discourse present in Harris’s “Gentlemen and Players”. The heroine commits a series of murders, organising her world as an exciting game in which these actions acquire a special meaning for her. Revealing the social causes of the crime, the author focuses not only on the psychological aspect but also on the philosophical discourse of the novel, which is shown through the phenomenon of play. The author reveals Julia’s inner experiences, relationships with other characters, and the motivations behind her criminal actions through first-person narration.Julia’s perception of play as a form of existence, along with her constant role changes and the masks she wears, highlights her self-identification through the game. This perspective allows us to examine the novel within a philosophical and metaphysical framework. The concept of play unveils irrational and unconscious processes within the human psyche and illustrates the imbalance between reality and fiction in Julia’s life. Through her engagement in play, Julia rejects societal regulations and seeks freedom, which represents a form of transgression. Joan Harris captures the consciousness of the modern individual about the surrounding world and explores her protagonist’s journey of self-discovery as she attempts to understand the motives behind her actions.The study provides an opportunity to more deeply understand and interpret the work of Joan Harris and her philosophising and outlines further analysis of the modern novel in an interdisciplinary discourse.