The concept of critique is the assessment and analysis of a particular phenomenon or occasion. However, in the Colors of the Mind by Angus Fletcher, criticism or the idea of critiquing and analysis of a work of literature is a demonstration of the use of thought. According to Fletcher, thinking accompanies the writing process and the same characterizes the anatomy of fictional and poetic strategies (Fletcher 200-310). Just as demonstrated in Don Quixote by Cervantes, the art of critique unfolds the mysteries, sufferings and romance of thoughts. Through literal critiquing, the author’s intentions are unmasked and the central idea explained. The same case applies to Don Quixote by Cervantes. Looking at part 1 of the novel, it is evident that the author begins the novel with a series of anxieties and complaints. The same introduces the audience to the author’s claim that the book is not only brilliant but is also beautiful and that the book resembles the author who in this case, is the creator of the book. From a critical point of view, it is evident that the author introduces the audience to the realism and idealism of literature.
In part one, the novel highlights intention and consequences as some of the issues of concerns. However, the author in the guise of his sensible friend points to the audience that the novel is primarily a satire of the chivalric romances and the medieval stories about the Knights. By warning us that he is not to be trusted, one can argue that the content of the novel in chapter one is an embodiment of lies. It is arguable to assert that the notion of adventure dominates the novel especially in the first part, and this is evident by the quote, “The brave man carves out his fortune, and every man is the sum of his own works.” The statement shows the struggles and fight of people in their pursuit of success and happiness. Finally, in Chapter 52, the attack on the holy pilgrims by Don Quixote can be symbolically viewed as a challenge to the ‘untouched’ and ridicule of romanticism especially by Cervantes (Cervantes Saavedra 1676-1750). From the analysis of the novel, it is evident that the theory of critique as argued by Angus Fletcher is widely applicable as we can see some of the hidden ‘lies’ in the book and the same confirms the assertions made by Angus in the book, Colors of the Mind.
Works Cited
Cervantes Saavedra, Miguel de. Don Quixote. 3rd Ed. The Norton Anthology of World Literature. Print.
Fletcher, Angus. Colors of The Mind. Harvard University Press, 1992. Print.
