Vita & Virginia

This blog is a part of a  thinking activity on the Vita & Virginia movie screening which was assigned by Vaidehi ma'am. 

∆ Post-Viewing Task :-

1.  Who do you think is initiating the relationship, Vita or Virginia? Who do you think is taking advantage of this relationship? 

Ans.

Vita Sackville-West and Virginia Woolf were two of the most important literary figures of the 20th century. Their relationship was complex and multifaceted.

Vita was attracted to Virginia from the start. She wrote to Virginia in 1924, "I am in love with you," and she continued to express her love for Virginia throughout their lives. However, it is also clear that Virginia was hesitant to commit to a relationship with Vita. She was married to Leonard Woolf, and she was worried about the potential consequences of coming out as a lesbian.However, it is important to note that this was not a one-sided relationship. Virginia loved Vita deeply, and she benefited greatly from their connection. Vita was a source of inspiration and support for Virginia, and she helped Virginia to become a more confident and self-assured writer.

I think Vita is taking advantage of this relationship.

2.Who do you think is confused about their identity Vita or Virginia? Explain with illustrations.

Ans.

Vita Sackville-West, portrayed as a vibrant and unconventional personality, struggles with societal expectations and the limitations imposed by her gender and class. She constantly seeks to break free from these constraints, exploring various identities and roles in her personal and literary life.

Virginia Woolf, on the other hand, battles with her mental health and the pressure of her own genius. She grapples with her identity as a writer, constantly questioning her place in the literary world and struggling with periods of intense self-doubt and instability.

Illustration:

Imagine two parallel paths, one representing Vita and the other Virginia. Vita's path is winding and full of vibrant colors, depicting her adventurous spirit and quest for identity. Virginia's path is more tumultuous, with dark clouds and sharp turns, symbolizing her inner struggles and battles with mental health.

In the center, where the paths intersect, depict moments of connection and collaboration between Vita and Virginia, showing how their intertwined lives and creative energies influenced each other despite their individual challenges with identity.

3. What is society’s thought about women and identity? Do you agree with them? If Yes then why? If no then why?

Ans.

Society's thoughts about women and identity vary widely depending on cultural, historical, and individual perspectives. Some societies embrace and empower women to express their identities freely, while others impose strict norms and expectations. Overall, there's a growing recognition of the importance of gender equality and the right of women to define their identities on their terms. Personally, I agree with the notion that women should have the freedom to shape their own identities without undue societal pressure or constraints. It's essential to respect individual autonomy and diversity in gender expression.

4. Write a note on your observations of the society during that era.

Ans.

∆ Social Class and Gender Roles :

• Rigidity: Society was still very much divided by class and gender. The upper class, in which Vita and Virginia moved, enjoyed considerable privilege and freedom compared to others. However, expectations and limitations still existed, particularly for women.

• Changing Roles: The post-WWI era saw a shift in some societal norms. Women gained more independence and entered the workforce in greater numbers. This is reflected in Vita's defiance of traditional expectations for a married woman.

∆ Sexuality and Morality:

• Conservative Attitudes: Homosexuality was still illegal and largely taboo in England. While Vita was more open about her sexuality, navigating same-sex relationships likely posed challenges and social stigma.

• Artistic Exploration: The Bloomsbury Group, of which Virginia was a member, challenged societal norms and explored alternative perspectives on sexuality and morality. This intellectual environment may have provided some space for Vita and Virginia's relationship.

∆ Literary and Artistic Scene:

• Flourishing: The 1920s saw a flourishing of literature and art in England. Virginia Woolf was a prominent figure in this movement, known for her innovative writing style and exploration of modernist themes.

• Blurring Boundaries: The lines between social circles and artistic expression were often blurred. Vita and Virginia's relationship itself became a source of inspiration and discussion within the artistic community.

5. Write a note on the direction of the movie. Which symbols and space caught your attention while watching the movie?

Ans.

∆ Direction:

Intimacy and passion: Chanya Button's direction focuses on the intimate and passionate relationship between Vita and Virginia, exploring their emotional depths and vulnerabilities. This is achieved through close-up shots, lingering gazes, and tender moments of connection.

Social commentary: While the film primarily focuses on the love story, it also subtly touches upon societal constraints and expectations regarding gender roles and sexuality in the 1920s. This adds another layer of complexity to the narrative.

Visually evocative: The film employs a rich visual palette, capturing the beauty of the English countryside and the contrasting worlds of Vita's aristocratic life and Virginia's Bloomsbury Group circles. This creates a visually engaging experience that complements the emotional journey of the characters.

∆ Symbols and Spaces:

• Bloomsbury Square: This iconic location represents the intellectual and artistic world that Virginia inhabits. It symbolizes freedom, creativity, and the breaking of social norms.

• Vita's garden: This lush and vibrant space reflects Vita's connection to nature and her wild, passionate spirit. It contrasts with the more structured and controlled environments of her social life.

• The writing desk: This shared space becomes a symbol of their creative collaboration and intellectual connection. It signifies the merging of their minds and the inspiration they draw from each other.

• Mirrors: Mirrors are used throughout the film, reflecting the characters' inner desires, anxieties, and complex emotions. They also symbolize self-discovery and the exploration of identity.

• Clothing: The characters' clothing choices can be interpreted as symbolic. Vita's bold and colorful outfits represent her defiance of societal expectations, while Virginia's more muted tones reflect her introspective nature.

6. I "Vita and Virginia" had to be made into a Bollywood Adaptation, who do you think would be fit for the role of Vita and Virginia?

Ans.

For a Bollywood adaptation of "Vita and Virginia," the roles of Vita Sackville-West and Virginia Woolf could be portrayed by talented Indian actresses. Some suggestions could be:

- Vita Sackville-West: Deepika Padukon could bring the necessary depth and charisma to portray Vita's complex character.

- Virginia Woolf:  Tabu could effectively capture Virginia's intellect and emotional nuances on screen.