The Effect of Imaginary and Religious Elements Vis- À-Vis Death in Oscar and The Pink Lady

Abstract

No doubt, one of the prominent concepts of literary works of the world is “death” which gains meaning vis-à-vis life. In
the works of writers death is often manifested in an ugly manner that is indicative of man’s bond with material belongings and
worldly life. But the contemporary French writer, Eric Emmanuel Schmitt’s approach to death is a specific one. His outstanding
work Oscar the lady in pink is the most account of a sick child who is in the brink of death, yet the writer, who is aware of the
impact of imagination on the child’s psyche and the depth of human spirit, creates an imaginary world for him. Thus not only death
is not ugly and horrendous but it becomes acceptable to the child, too. Imagination, as a revitalizing force is the only tool to
recognize an abstract phenomenon like death. Making use of this force, which is more apt to be recreated in a child to the
pleasant and splendid moments in a way that he has no fear of facing death. Combining the elements and concepts of short story
stemming from the contemporary real world with the world of imagination, the writer creates a story with a unique theme and
draws everybody’s attention to an ideal humane and hopeful world. This article, whit regard to Schmitt’s purpose, motivation and
mental actions, shows how he, relying on religious beliefs and humanitarian emotions and exploiting psychological elements and
imagination, enables the character of the story to easily accept death that lies beyond tangible manifestations.