THE ROLE OF SISTERHOOD IN SHAPING FEMALE IDENTITY IN GWEN E. KIRBY’S “INISHMORE”

Abstract

The article analyses the image of sisterhood as a space for the formation of female identity in Gwen E. Kirby’s short story “Inishmore”. The study highlights the specific features of representing female identity within the context of contemporary women’s literature, exploring its thematic concerns and the peculiarities of constructing an artistic world through the lens of “women’s writing”. It is established that self-awareness is deeply connected to memory, which functions as both a manifestation and a component of identity. Kirby’s prose is marked by a nonlinear narrative and frequent flashbacks, allowing for the creation of a multifaceted portrayal of the protagonist. The image of the father is linked to childhood conflicts and symbolizes silent authority and emotional detachment. His stance serves as a model of internalised silence, still evident in the sisters’ interactions, marked by avoidance of direct confrontation, inappropriate humour, and mockery instead of open dialogue. The psycho-emotional mechanism of identification with the younger sister illustrates how sisterly affection becomes a projection of personal expectations onto another. The journey to the island of Inishmore serves as a metaphor for transformation, wherein the characters attempt to reconsider their roles and broaden the scope of their subjectivity. Through a feminist lens, the article examines how female experience, trauma, and memory intersect in the process of self-discovery. Sisterhood is conceptualised as a unique emotional and psychological space that can serve as both a source of strength and a site of pressure and interdependence. The narrative structure and thematic content of the story underscore its feminist character.