A sense of individuality..

Effects of colonization around the world today include conflicts found in many areas that were once colonized or controlled by Western European authority. Similar to the second half of J.M. Coetzee’s “Disgrace”. Tensions have occurred in Cape town, and it seems as though David, and Lucy’s pride is now lessened. David, and Lucy, once the dominating characters in the novel, have grown apart from each other, now living with several insecurities, and constantly disagreeing with one another’s ideas. In the mean time, Petrus, who was looked upon as the inferior character, has now gained a sense of individuality. At one time in the novel, Petrus even mentions that he “is no longer the dog man”. In the second half of the novel, Petrus is portrayed to be a rebel. For example, in David’s attempt to “nag” Petrus, he says “… I find it hard to believe the men who came here were strangers… “Those men knew about the forestry station. I am convinced they knew about Lucy. How could they have known if they were complete strangers to the district?” Petrus chooses not to take this question”. Petrus continues to not offer David information, which puts David in a rage, to the point where he wants to “take Petrus by the throat.” (pg 119). This demonstrates that Petrus, who was once willing to help David, and Lucy , somewhat a gofer to them, has now stepped up to leading characters, carrying the attitude as if he does not care how they feel. This connection to pos-colonialism, demonstrates the ability of one colony attempt towards liberation. However, the novel this is depicted through individual characters.