“Not Wanted on the Voyage” is a novel by Canadian author Timothy Findley that was published in 1984. The book is a retelling of the biblical story of Noah’s Ark, but with a dark and satirical twist. In this captivating summary, we will explore the themes and characters of the novel, as well as the author’s unique approach to the biblical narrative. Findley’s novel is a thought-provoking and entertaining read that challenges readers to question their beliefs and assumptions about religion, morality, and human nature.
Overview of “Not Wanted on the Voyage”
“Not Wanted on the Voyage” is a novel by Canadian author Timothy Findley, published in 1984. The book is a retelling of the biblical story of Noah’s Ark, but with a twist. Findley’s version of the story is a dark and twisted tale that explores themes of power, control, and the human condition. The novel follows the story of Noah and his family as they prepare for the great flood and build the ark. However, in this version of the story, the animals are not the only ones on board. Noah’s wife, Lucy, and their three children, Japheth, Ham, and Shem, are also on the ark. As the flood waters rise and the family is forced to confront their own demons, they begin to turn on each other, and the true nature of their relationships is revealed. Findley’s “Not Wanted on the Voyage” is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that challenges readers to question their own beliefs and values.
Plot Summary
In “Not Wanted on the Voyage,” Timothy Findley tells the story of Noah’s Ark in a new and captivating way. The novel follows the journey of Noah, his family, and the animals as they face the wrath of God in the form of a flood. However, Findley adds his own twist to the story by introducing new characters and conflicts. One of the most significant changes is the addition of a character named Lucifer, who is portrayed as a female cat. Lucifer becomes a central figure in the story, as she challenges the authority of Noah and his God. As the flood rages on, the characters are forced to confront their own beliefs and desires, leading to a dramatic and unexpected conclusion. Overall, “Not Wanted on the Voyage” is a thought-provoking and engaging retelling of a classic tale.
Main Characters
The main characters in Timothy Findley’s “Not Wanted on the Voyage” are a diverse group of individuals who are forced to confront their deepest fears and desires as they embark on a perilous journey. The central figure is Noah Noyes, a stern and uncompromising patriarch who is determined to build an ark and save his family from the impending flood. His wife, Mrs. Noyes, is a fragile and sensitive woman who struggles to cope with the harsh realities of their situation. Their three sons, Shem, Ham, and Japheth, are each grappling with their own personal demons, while their wives and children must navigate the treacherous waters of family dynamics and survival. As the flood waters rise and tensions mount, the characters are forced to confront their own mortality and the fragility of human existence. Through their struggles and triumphs, they ultimately discover the true meaning of love, sacrifice, and redemption.
Dr. Noah Noyes
Dr. Noah Noyes is a character in Timothy Findley’s novel “Not Wanted on the Voyage.” He is a respected scientist and the father of the protagonist, Japeth Noyes. Dr. Noyes is a man of science who believes in rationality and logic. He is also a devout Christian who believes in the literal interpretation of the Bible. This puts him at odds with his son, who questions the validity of the Bible and the existence of God. Despite their differences, Dr. Noyes loves his son and tries to protect him from the dangers of the flood that is about to engulf the world. However, his efforts are in vain, and Japeth is forced to confront the harsh realities of the world. Dr. Noyes is a complex character who embodies the conflict between science and religion, and his struggles reflect the larger themes of the novel.
Mrs. Noyes
Mrs. Noyes is one of the most intriguing characters in Timothy Findley’s “Not Wanted on the Voyage.” She is the wife of Noah Noyes, the captain of the ark, and is portrayed as a deeply religious and devout woman. However, as the story progresses, it becomes clear that Mrs. Noyes is not as pious as she appears. She is manipulative and controlling, using her religion as a means of exerting power over those around her. Mrs. Noyes is also fiercely protective of her son Japheth, going to great lengths to ensure his safety on the ark. Despite her flaws, Mrs. Noyes is a complex and fascinating character, adding depth and nuance to the story.
Lucy Noyes
Lucy Noyes is one of the main characters in Timothy Findley’s novel, “Not Wanted on the Voyage.” She is the wife of Noah Noyes, a devoutly religious man who is chosen by God to build an ark and save his family and a pair of every animal from a coming flood. Lucy is a complex character who struggles with her faith and her role as a wife and mother. She is often at odds with her husband, who is domineering and controlling, and she finds solace in her relationship with her son, Japheth. Throughout the novel, Lucy undergoes a transformation as she confronts her own beliefs and desires and learns to assert herself in a world dominated by men. Findley’s portrayal of Lucy is both sympathetic and nuanced, and her story adds depth and complexity to the novel’s exploration of faith, power, and gender.
Mr. Noyes
Mr. Noyes is one of the main characters in Timothy Findley’s novel “Not Wanted on the Voyage.” He is a devoutly religious man who believes that the flood is God’s punishment for the sins of humanity. Mr. Noyes is also the father of Japheth, one of the few people chosen by Noah to board the ark. However, Mr. Noyes is not chosen to join them, and this rejection fuels his anger and resentment towards Noah and his family. As the floodwaters rise, Mr. Noyes becomes increasingly unhinged and begins to question his faith. He is a complex character who represents the struggle between faith and doubt in the face of adversity.
The Animals on the Ark
The animals on the ark were a diverse group, ranging from the smallest insects to the largest mammals. They were all brought together by Noah in an effort to save them from the impending flood. However, as the voyage progressed, tensions began to rise among the animals. The predators began to eye the prey, and the herbivores grew restless in their confined spaces. It was a difficult task for Noah to keep the peace among the animals, but he managed to do so with the help of his family. Despite the challenges, the animals on the ark managed to survive the flood and emerge onto a new world.
Religious Themes
In “Not Wanted on the Voyage,” Timothy Findley explores religious themes through the lens of a retelling of the biblical story of Noah’s Ark. The novel delves into the concept of God’s wrath and the idea of punishment for sin, as well as the role of faith and belief in times of crisis. Findley also examines the power dynamics within religious institutions and the potential for corruption and abuse of power. Through the characters of Noah and his wife, Findley presents a nuanced portrayal of the complexities of faith and the struggle to reconcile personal beliefs with the actions of religious leaders. Overall, “Not Wanted on the Voyage” offers a thought-provoking exploration of religious themes that will leave readers questioning their own beliefs and values.
Symbolism
Symbolism plays a significant role in Timothy Findley’s “Not Wanted on the Voyage.” The novel is filled with various symbols that represent different themes and ideas. One of the most prominent symbols in the book is the ark, which represents the idea of salvation and hope. The ark is a vessel that saves the chosen few from the destruction of the world, just as Noah’s ark did in the biblical story. The ark in the novel is also a symbol of power and control, as it is controlled by Noah, who is portrayed as a tyrant. Another symbol in the book is the serpent, which represents temptation and evil. The serpent is a recurring symbol throughout the novel, and it is often associated with the character of Lucifer, who is portrayed as a seductive and manipulative figure. The use of symbolism in “Not Wanted on the Voyage” adds depth and complexity to the story, and it allows the reader to explore the various themes and ideas presented in the novel.
Setting
The setting of “Not Wanted on the Voyage” is a fictionalized version of the biblical story of Noah’s Ark. The story takes place in a small community of people who are preparing for a great flood that will destroy the world. The community is led by Noah, a self-righteous and authoritarian figure who believes that he has been chosen by God to save humanity. The setting is dark and foreboding, with the threat of impending doom hanging over the characters throughout the novel. The cramped and claustrophobic conditions on the ark add to the tension and sense of unease, as the characters are forced to confront their own mortality and the fragility of their existence. The setting of “Not Wanted on the Voyage” is a powerful metaphor for the human condition, highlighting the struggle for survival in a world that is often hostile and unforgiving.
Writing Style
The writing style of Timothy Findley in “Not Wanted on the Voyage” is captivating and unique. He uses a combination of vivid imagery, symbolism, and allegory to create a world that is both fantastical and disturbing. Findley’s prose is rich and poetic, with a lyrical quality that draws the reader in and keeps them engaged throughout the novel. He also employs a variety of narrative techniques, including multiple perspectives and flashbacks, to create a complex and layered story. Overall, Findley’s writing style is both beautiful and haunting, making “Not Wanted on the Voyage” a truly unforgettable read.
Critiques of “Not Wanted on the Voyage”
Despite its critical acclaim, Not Wanted on the Voyage has not been without its detractors. Some have criticized the novel for its graphic and disturbing depictions of violence and sexuality, which they argue are gratuitous and unnecessary. Others have taken issue with the novel’s portrayal of religion, which they see as overly critical and dismissive of faith. Still, others have criticized the novel’s structure, which they feel is disjointed and confusing at times. Despite these criticisms, however, Not Wanted on the Voyage remains a powerful and thought-provoking work of literature that continues to captivate readers to this day.
Comparison to Other Works by Timothy Findley
In comparison to other works by Timothy Findley, Not Wanted on the Voyage stands out as a unique and captivating novel. While his other works, such as The Wars and Famous Last Words, also explore themes of war and the human condition, Not Wanted on the Voyage delves into the realm of fantasy and mythology. The novel reimagines the biblical story of Noah’s Ark, adding a dark and twisted twist to the familiar tale.
Findley’s use of magical realism and allegory in Not Wanted on the Voyage sets it apart from his other works. The novel is a commentary on the human condition, exploring themes of power, control, and the struggle for survival. The characters are complex and flawed, and their actions are often driven by their own desires and fears.
Overall, Not Wanted on the Voyage showcases Timothy Findley’s versatility as a writer. While his other works may be more grounded in reality, this novel demonstrates his ability to create a fantastical world that is both thought-provoking and entertaining.
Impact and Legacy of “Not Wanted on the Voyage”
“Not Wanted on the Voyage” by Timothy Findley has left a lasting impact on readers and critics alike. The novel explores themes of power, religion, and gender roles in a unique retelling of the biblical story of Noah’s Ark. Findley’s use of magical realism and his vivid descriptions of the characters and their struggles have captivated readers for decades.
The legacy of “Not Wanted on the Voyage” can be seen in its influence on contemporary literature. The novel has inspired other writers to explore similar themes and to experiment with magical realism. It has also been adapted into a successful stage play, further cementing its place in Canadian literary history.
Moreover, the novel’s exploration of power dynamics and gender roles remains relevant today. The characters’ struggles with patriarchal authority and the abuse of power are issues that continue to be discussed and debated in modern society.
In conclusion, “Not Wanted on the Voyage” is a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate readers and inspire writers. Its impact on Canadian literature and its exploration of important themes make it a must-read for anyone interested in the power of storytelling.
Adaptations and Interpretations
One of the most notable adaptations of Timothy Findley’s “Not Wanted on the Voyage” is the 1991 opera of the same name, composed by Canadian composer John Estacio with a libretto by Canadian playwright John Murrell. The opera premiered at the Banff Centre for the Arts and has since been performed by various opera companies across Canada. The adaptation stays true to the novel’s themes of power, religion, and family dynamics, while also adding a new layer of musicality and theatricality. The opera’s score features a mix of contemporary and classical styles, with haunting choral arrangements and soaring arias. The production also incorporates striking visual elements, such as a giant puppet of the biblical character Noah. Overall, the “Not Wanted on the Voyage” opera is a stunning interpretation of Findley’s novel that brings its story to life in a new and captivating way.