Marjane Satrapi: Persepolis– 'Kim Wilde', 2000

Marjane Satrapi: Persepolis– ‘Kim Wilde’, 2000

Context of the Text

• Marjane Satrapi’s ‘Kim Wilde’ is a chapter from her graphic novel, “Persepolis”. This novel is a memoir that depicts her childhood up to her early adult years in Iran during and after the Islamic revolution.
• Cultural background is an integral part of understanding this text, as it discusses the socio-political environment of Iran during that time and how it affected Satrapi personally.

Content and Themes

• The central theme of ‘Kim Wilde’ is the tension between Western influences and the restrictive Islamic government in Iran.
• Resistance of the Iranian people, especially the youth, towards the government’s strict rules, is highlighted.
• Identity crisis faced by the protagonist, and young people of Iran, torn between the Western influence and their own culture, is an important theme.

Language and Style

• The use of graphic illustrations to tell the story is a significant part of Satrapi’s style, integrating visual art with textual narrative.
• Satrapi’s visual language is simplistic but expressive, with heavy reliance on black and white imagery, denoting the somber reality of that era.

Form and Structure

• ‘Kim Wilde’ follows a sequential art form combining both visual and literary storytelling techniques.
• Attention should be paid to the juxtaposition and sequencing of panels which plays a crucial role in the narrative’s pacing and development.

Perspective and Representation

• The chapter presents the perspective of the youth in post-revolution Iran, bringing forth their struggles and coping mechanisms.
• The women in the narrative indirectly challenge the normative gender roles imposed by the theocratic regime.

Socio-Political Context

• The text must be read in association with the socio-cultural and political upheaval in Iran during the Islamic revolution.