OUGD501 Task 2 - Parody & Pastiche

Today we read two extracts of essays from Jameson and Hutcheon both touching on post-modernism in art. The texts were called, 'The Politics of Postmodernism: Parody & History' by Linda Hutcheon (1998) ; and 'Postmodernism or, The Cultural Logic of Late Capitalism' by Fredric Jameson (1991) after looking at both excerpts I have given my response to how they have both written about the subjects parody and pastiche.

Definitions

Parody - an imitation of the style of a particular writer, artist, or genre with deliberate exaggeration for comic effect.

Pastiche - an artistic work in a style that imitates that of another work, artist, or period. - 'to imitate the style of (an artist or work)'

Marxist/ism - A system of economic, social, and political philosophy based on ideas that view social change in terms of economic factors. A central tenet is that the means of production is the economic base that influences or determines the political life.

How does parody/pastiche relate to postmodernism? 

‘Postmodernism signals its contradictory dependence upon and independence from the modernism that both historically preceded it and literally made it possible’

What is parody/pastiche according to the authors?

Typically Postmodernism's main theories are in its own production and response, also its relation to parodic value in art. Hutcheon states that this is the definition of parody and that seemingly it is an reclusive idea of formalism, thus bringing a direct dispute with the problem toward the relation of visual aesthetics in self evaluative way,  meandering to a socially defined world which categorises ideology.

To Jameson Pastiche is similarly like parody, the impersonating of a unique and distinctive style, like wearing a another personality. Pastiche and parody although similar have different values and needs, the difference between the two needs to be clear and illustrious, Jameson discusses how parody has a false nature of appearance whereas pastiche is more genuine?

How does Jameson’s tone of voice differ to Hutcheon’s?
Jameson’s style is really condensed and full he changes from topic to topic quicker than Hutcheon’s approach to writing. Jamesons approach is pessimistic and negative and has overly critical features with such as ‘Speech in a dead language’ indicating his attitude to the subjects discussed.

Hutcheon has a more positive approach to the themes discussed but contradictingly she has a negative view and opinion about Marxist's discussions in Jamesons essay. Linda has discussed her opinions in relation to art and cultural settings but has chose to also touch on architecture within her essay.

How does this relate to graphic design?
Postmodernism in graphic design is shown by the repeating and recylcline of styles. Earlier work of postmodernism still has influence of morderninst principles suggesting the use of pastiche, in this parody is not relevant but could be applied in other developments of the movement.

Conclusion
In conclusion Jameson's essay suggest his opinion is different from the dictionary definition. He is influenced by his Marxist principles, making him have a clear view of negativity towards pastiche.

Hutcheon contrasts Jameoson's opinion having a very different view on pastiche. ' Pastiche is often viewed as being a more neutral, blank form of parody Hutcheon rejects Jamesons ideas on pastiche by calling it a 'blank form of parody'.

They both argue about the place of parody and speech and because the two have different opinions tit can be seen as either or, parody and pastiche therefore can be take in as in opinion rather than fact.