On Ambiguity in Fun Home: Analysis of Two Key Scenes Anonymous College

Ambiguity is present within every language as every word can be interpreted slightly differently. In literature, complex ideas are often indirectly depicted through the use of metaphors and symbols. Likewise, images also possess a sense of ambiguity, perhaps even more so than words, since images are not bound within the limits of textual definitions or grammar in the way words are. Graphic novels manipulate images and blends them with concise text and presents a story through this way. Alison Bechdel demonstrates this method of expression in her book Fun Home, a memoir that showcases Alison’s growth journey as she discovers about homosexuality, both her own and her father’s. Ambiguity is very clearly incorporated in the graphic novel, such as the ambiguity around Bruce’s death which is strongly hinted to be suicidal, as well as the ambiguity of Bruce’s homosexuality that was not revealed to Alison until she came out first. There is also ambiguity in the general dynamics of the relationship between Alison and Bruce due to Bruce’s detached persona. However, Alison’s relationship with her mother, Helen, is one that has far less ambiguous. The clarity that is within Alison and her mother’s relationship clearly juxtaposes Alison’s...