Evil Symbolism in Modern and Puritan Literature

Evil's shadow stretches back through time as humanity wrestles with darkness's source. The renowned writer Joseph Conrad famously asserted, "The belief in a supernatural source of evil is not necessary; men alone are quite capable of every wickedness." This statement implies that evil is not an external force imposed upon individuals but rather a manifestation of human nature influenced by personal experiences and upbringing. This notion is vividly depicted in Etgar Keret's "What of This Goldfish Would You Wish?" and Nathaniel Hawthorne's "Young Goodman Brown," where the protagonists' past experiences significantly impact their present actions and perceptions.

Through an exploration of these stories, we learn how deeply ingrained experiences shape human behavior and worldview.

Evolving Through Experiences

In Keret's "What of This Goldfish Would You Wish?," we encounter a young boy named Yonatan, who embarks on a project to create a film by asking people a simple yet profound question: "If you found a talking goldfish that granted you three wishes, what would you wish for?" This seemingly innocent inquiry elicits a range of intriguing responses from various individuals. The narrative introduces us to Sergei Goralick, a man living in isolation in Jaffa, who has distanced himself from society due to his tumultuous past experiences in Russia, where the KGB frequently disrupted his life. This background sets the stage for Sergei's deep-seated mistrust of strangers and his yearning for solitude.

Sergei's encounter with Yonatan becomes a pivotal moment in the story. When Yonatan approaches him with his film project, Sergei's past trauma resurfaces. The boy's casual curiosity about Sergei's goldfish triggers an intense reaction, reminiscent of the intrusive encounters he endured in his homeland. Misinterpreting Yonatan's intentions, Sergei reacts violently, inadvertently harming the boy. This incident underscores the profound impact of Sergei's past experiences on his present actions. His inability to trust others or see beyond his fears leads to a tragic outcome, highlighting the dangers of allowing past traumas to dictate present behavior.

Shadows of the Past

Similarly, in Hawthorne's "Young Goodman Brown," the protagonist's journey into the forest serves as a metaphorical exploration of his inner turmoil and the influence of past experiences on his perception of reality. As Goodman Brown ventures into the woods, he encounters an enigmatic older man who guides him through a series of unsettling encounters with familiar figures from his village. These encounters cast doubt on the morality and integrity of those he once trusted, including his wife, Faith.

Goodman Brown's journey becomes a nightmarish revelation of the dual nature of humanity, where the line between good and evil blurs. The forest, symbolic of the unknown and the subconscious, forces Goodman Brown to confront the complexities of human nature and the potential for hypocrisy within his community. As he witnesses respected figures engaged in sinister acts, his faith in humanity shatters. This disillusionment profoundly alters his perception of the world, leading him to adopt an isolated and cynical stance towards his community and loved ones.

The Interplay of Experience and Perception

Both Sergei and Goodman Brown exemplify how past experiences can shape and distort one's perception of reality. Sergei's violent reaction to Yonatan stems from his inability to separate his past traumas from his present interactions. Similarly, Goodman Brown's journey into the forest reveals the fragility of his faith and trust, leading to a life of suspicion and alienation. These narratives underscore the transformative power of experiences, illustrating how they can either imprison individuals in a cycle of fear and mistrust or serve as catalysts for personal growth and understanding.

In conclusion, the exploration of evil and experience in "What of This Goldfish Would You Wish?" and "Young Goodman Brown" reveals the intricate interplay between past experiences and present behavior. Both stories serve as cautionary tales, urging readers to reflect on the ways in which their past shapes their perceptions and actions. By acknowledging and understanding the influence of experiences, individuals can strive to break free from the shackles of fear and prejudice, paving the way for personal growth and a more nuanced understanding of human nature.

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