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Alliteration
Definition of Allusion
In literature, an allusion is an unexplained reference to someone or something outside of the text. Writers commonly allude to other literary works, famous individuals, historical events, or philosophical ideas... read full definition
In literature, an allusion is an unexplained reference to someone or something outside of the text. Writers commonly allude to other literary works, famous individuals... read full definition
In literature, an allusion is an unexplained reference to someone or something outside of the text. Writers commonly allude to... read full definition
Allusions
Explanation and Analysis—Singer Sewing Machine:
When Tilly arrives in Dungatar in Chapter 1, one of the items she brings with her is "something with a domed cover with 'Singer' printed in gold letters across its side." With this allusion to the Singer sewing machine, Ham both gives the reader a sense of the time period the story is set in and hints that Tilly is the dressmaker mentioned in the title. Serving as a motif in the novel, the Singer sewing machine becomes linked with Tilly. Her sewing talents are a key aspect of her characterization.
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Allusions
Explanation and Analysis—Products and Brands:
Throughout the novel, Ham alludes to a number of different brands and product names that underline the story's geographic and temporal backdrop. The allusions are quite stratified, as their connotations and associations vary widely. On one level, the characters use, eat, and mention a number of everyday consumer goods. On another level, the characters and narrator frequently bring up luxury fashion brands and expensive designer goods. While the first level gives a sense of life in a small Australian town like Dungatar in the 1950s, the second level gives a sense of the world beyond Dungatar and Australia.
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Allusions
Explanation and Analysis—Cultural Exports:
The Dressmaker contains a large number of allusions to American and European singers, writers, actors, dancers, plays, movies, and songs. This steady stream of references both gives a sense of the time period the novel is set in and of the influence that cultural exports from the rest of the world had on Australian culture in the mid-20th century.
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Chapter 27
Explanation and Analysis—Shakespeare:
The Dressmaker contains a number of allusions to Shakespeare. Macbeth receives the most attention, since the townspeople put on a production of it, but they also refer to other works—such as his sonnets and Romeo and Juliet. Over the course of the novel, Ham combines these Shakespearean allusions with dramatic irony to mock the townspeople's lack of awareness. Despite their eagerness about the production, they don't seem to know much about either the play or playwright. This creates a bond between Tilly, the narrator, and the reader, who together witness the townspeople's stubborn ignorance.
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