The
protagonist and antagonist in the story of the Hunger Artist by Franz Kafka
happen to be the same character in some instances to my mind. He’s a
protagonist in his assumption of his role as main character who comes into
conflict with opposing forces. One such force, I believe, is himself. His
constant irritability, depressed disposition and inability to lead a life of
purpose, eventually leads to his pathetic futile end. Several other
antagonistic forces however, have proven to impose on the artist’s free will,
giving rise to conflict. The protagonist wishes for all to see how great an
artist he was in his ability to refrain from even a morsel for much longer than
a mere forty days, but his impresario wouldn’t let him. The artist is greatly
displeased too with his audience for not showing perpetual interest in his
work. He is also deeply offended by those who keep watch over him so that he
does not slip into his mouth the tiniest portion of food. However, even in the
absence of limitations, the artist fails. His final words only adds insult to
injury, as I’m convinced, that he like many in society today pull forth an
excuse so as to minimize their failure.
Artist
everywhere, regardless of form and medium must deal with some aspect of
misunderstanding and disparagement displayed by intended audience. The message
of a song may be misconstrued, an observer may miss the intricate details of a
painting, a narrative intended to uproot deep emotions may be totally
unimpressionable. Art work once enjoyed may also lose interest with time
resulting from an introduction of new more interesting sources of
entertainment. The economic stance of a people may also influence their choice
of entertainment. It behooves artists therefore, to remain a source of interest,
by developing a relationship with intended audience, even by understanding
their desires and readjusting work to cater for same. The fact remains that an
artist’s work, is entertainment, and the only way he can fully accomplish his
purpose is to commit towards the fulfilment of his audience desire.
