Analysis of the Novel “Van Gogh's Flowers” by Maqbool Al-Alavi Based on Roland Barthes' Codes

A novel is a text that can be analyzed through various approaches to uncover its deeper meanings. Roland Barthes, a prominent theorist, introduced five codes—hermeneutic, semantic, symbolic, proairetic, and cultural—to explore the meanings and concepts within literary texts. This study examines the novel "Ahur Van Gogh" by Maebul Alavi, a work that reflects diverse cultural and social concepts. The central theme of the novel revolves around the theft of the famous painting and the events surrounding it. This research employs a descriptive-analytical method, utilizing Barthes' theory of codes to analyze the novel's semantics, with a particular focus on symbolic and semantic codes. The author analyzes the characters' behaviors and dialogues to reveal their traits. According to the findings, key values such as humanity, faith, and sacrifice are central to the novel. Simultaneously, the exploitation of these values by others for theft and deception is critically examined. Through the symbolic behaviors of the characters—such as greed, loyalty, and varying intentions—and by highlighting social contrasts and the changing locations of the painting, the novel explores the disparities and contradictions within society.
Introduction
Roland Barthes, the prominent French theorist (1915–1980), argued that the structure of a text is not something to be discovered but rather something that is created, and that the meaning of the text is embedded within the text itself. Before Barthes, the primary meaning of "text" referred exclusively to written works; however, Barthes eliminated the distinction between written records, verbal expression, and visual representation. He viewed writing as a system of human communication and paved the way for understanding that even dance, film, painting, and other forms could be considered texts worthy of analysis. Barthes also introduced a model for more effective analysis and discovery of meanings and concepts in literary texts and narratives, which he called the five codes: Hermeneutic, Semantic, Symbolic, Proairetic, and Cultural. He identified these codes within a complex web of narrative. Codes are essentially systems of signs that generate specific messages and consist of sets of signs along with rules governing their combination. These five codes, as defined by Barthes, categorize each signifier within the text. The Semantic code addresses the psychological traits or characteristics associated with the characters or settings presented throughout the text. The Symbolic code represents the fundamental relationship between the text and the reader. At the beginning, Barthes demonstrates how certain semantic features, such as inside/outside and warm/cold, are organized into a system of oppositions, highlighting the foundational structure of the text.
Methodology
The Proairetic code represents the actions of characters connected by a chain of events. The Referential or Cultural code calls upon the reader to use their knowledge of the real world to shape the meaning, and the Hermeneutic code, deals with hidden meaning, is introduced as the art of interpretation.
This study investigates the novel "Van Gogh's Flowers" by the famous Saudi author Maqbool Al-Alavi. The novel "Van Gogh's Flowers" won the Saudi Ministry of Culture and Information Award in 2019. This novel portrays various cultural and social concepts, and its main theme revolves around the theft of the painting by the famous Dutch artist Vincent van Gogh and the events surrounding it. This essay, relying on a descriptive-analytical method and utilizing two of Roland Barthes' codes (Semantic and Symbolic), explores the semantic analysis of the novel "Van Gogh's Flowers" and aims to study the narrative capacities of Barthes' theory and the discovery of meanings through these two codes.                                            
Results and Discussion
Since Barthes' narrative perspective is valuable for the structural analysis of a literary text and Maqbool Al-Alavi, as an author, is concerned with social issues in the Arab world, this novel was chosen for analysis and review of Barthes' codes. Additionally, limited research on the works of Maqbool Al-Alavi adds to the importance of this subject. This text clearly emphasizes the significance of Barthes' semantic codes in storytelling. According to Barthes' theory, a literary narrative is not merely a linear account but rather a complex network of overlapping codes that make meaning dynamic, variable, and multilayered. As previously mentioned, semantic codes encompass implicit connotations and play a crucial role in shaping both characters and the story's atmosphere. Barthes also argues that these codes are conveyed to the reader through specific signifiers, a concept clearly demonstrated in the narrative of "Van Gogh's Flowers," where characters employ different codes based on their individual traits. Hamid, the story’s narrator, maintains neutrality in recounting events while simultaneously possessing a vague and enigmatic presence. His name appears only twice in the text, underscoring the role of semantic codes in constructing his identity. Faisal’s personality is revealed indirectly through interactions and dialogue. His inherent modesty and politeness reflect his upbringing and careful choice of words. Mohsen's physical characteristics, such as his yellowed teeth from smoking, underscore his recklessness and deceitful nature. His ambition to attain wealth through unethical means is also conveyed through semantic codes. Similarly, Raouf’s return to spirituality marks a turning point in the narrative. After hearing the Quranic recitation before dawn prayers, he experiences a profound inner transformation, transitioning from doubt to certainty and emerging from the darkness of misguidance into the light of truth.
Dr. Gachet’s relationship with Van Gogh extends beyond a conventional medical interaction. His recommendation to treat Van Gogh through artistic engagement and personal interests reflects a profound understanding of the artist’s psyche. In this way, Dr. Gachet is not merely a physician but a guardian of Van Gogh’s weary soul, assuming a role beyond simple treatment, as he is able to temporarily guide Van Gogh back to himself.
The symbolic codes in this text not only establish the semantic framework of the characters but also unveil the hidden layers of the narrative to the reader. These symbolic codes are inherent within the text; however, the process of uncovering and interpreting them enhances the reader’s understanding. In this narrative, the world is constructed through a series of opposing dualities. Space, time, and characters are all intricately intertwined in conflict. The city is depicted as a symbol of insecurity and anxiety, while the village represents stability and tranquility. Thus, the village becomes a refuge for Van Gogh, whereas the city casts a shadow of distress over him. This spatial contrast reflects a fundamental duality in human existence: the bustling city that drains the soul versus the serene village, whose unspoiled nature nurtures creativity and peace for the artist. Likewise, night serves as a veil over secrets, a time for theft and illegal dealings, whereas day symbolizes clarity, confession, and the return to truth.