Destiny and history are untidy

Destiny and history are untidy

Djuna Barnes, a prominent American writer and artist, is often associated with the idea that destiny and history are untidy. Throughout her works, Barnes explores the complexities of human relationships, the unpredictability of fate, and the messy nature of history. Her writing is characterized by its fragmented structure, nonlinear narrative, and unconventional storytelling techniques, all of which reflect the chaotic and unpredictable nature of life.

In her most famous work, "Nightwood," Barnes delves into the lives of a group of characters whose destinies are intertwined in a tangled web of love, desire, and betrayal. The novel is a haunting exploration of the messiness of human emotions and the ways in which our actions can shape our destinies. Barnes challenges traditional notions of fate and destiny, suggesting that they are not predetermined but rather shaped by the choices we make and the relationships we form.

Barnes also explores the untidiness of history in her writing, particularly in her journalistic work. As a reporter for several newspapers and magazines, Barnes covered a wide range of topics, from politics to culture to social issues. Her writing often reflected the chaotic and tumultuous events of the early 20th century, including World War I, the rise of fascism, and the Great Depression. Barnes was keenly aware of the messiness of history, the ways in which it is shaped by power struggles, conflicts, and competing narratives.