Post originally by The Fiendish Dr. Samsara at 2004-09-29 20:06:04
Converted from Phorums BB System

I hope that I’m not trying to save Howard’s appearance, but I do honestly feel that he had problems with the rascism himself, even if he would be unlikely to recognize that. Of course, one could say that the authour’s personal stance is ultimately irrelevant to the work, but I read conflict over this issue in the stories.

And while it would be an over-reading of the stories, I also think some Literature grad student could persuasively argue that the African stories can be read as a critique of rascism—the white imperialist consciously demeans the Other, but unconsciously yearns for it. Thus Kane’s reaction to the Vampire Queen (and his utter lack of reaction to the white girl) and thus Kane’s incomprehensible (to himself) yearning for Africa.

I agree heartily about Kane’s Puritanism. I think it is quite clear that he is only a Puritan out of an attempt to rationalize his own behavior. Telling himself that he is God’s instrument of vengeance explains him to himself. Telling himself that God punishes the cruel and loves the weak provides a reasonable motivation for what he does, which is patently insane to everyone else (such as le Loup in “Red Shadows”, who speaks for all of us). That flashy, green sash shows us that Kane isn’t really a Puritan (prohibition against ostentatious display), as does the juju stick (big time prohibition against witchcraft). That’s why I think Kane is so much interesting character than Conan.

I do wish that missing story existed, but I understand why you don’t. Maybe we each have to determine for ourselves why Kane can finally escape Africa.