ASSIGNMENT

“Comparison: ‘A Little Cloud’ by James Joyce and Sofia Coppola’s ‘Lost in Translation’”

Student Name: Waseem Bughio

Department: English (BS Evening Program)

In comparing James Joyce's "A Little Cloud" and Sofia Coppola's "Lost in Translation," one can
observe a shared exploration of the internal struggle against the confines of societal roles and the
longing for a more meaningful existence. Both narratives delve into the emotional landscapes of
their characters, who are caught in the throes of life's unpredictability and their own unfulfilled
desires.

Themes of Alienation and Disconnection: Both the novella and the film explore the feelings of
alienation and disconnection from one’s surroundings. In “A Little Cloud,” Little Chandler feels
disconnected from his dreams and aspirations due to his mundane life and responsibilities.
Similarly, in “Lost in Translation,” both Bob and Charlotte experience a sense of alienation in
Tokyo, a city foreign to them, as they struggle with their personal crises.

Cultural Displacement: The protagonists in both stories are out of sync with the culture they
are surrounded by. Little Chandler is fascinated yet intimidated by the cosmopolitan life his
friend Gallaher leads, feeling out of place in his own Dublin life. Bob and Charlotte in “Lost in
Translation” are Americans in Tokyo, navigating the cultural barriers and language differences
that heighten their sense of isolation.

Unfulfilled Aspirations: Little Chandler harbors a secret desire to become a poet, a dream that
he feels is unattainable within the constraints of his life. Bob Harris, the fading movie star in
“Lost in Translation,” is also confronting the twilight of his career and the diminishing
opportunities that come with aging.

Contrasting Relationships with the Past: In “A Little Cloud,” Little Chandler’s reunion with
Gallaher brings his past aspirations to the forefront, causing him to reflect on what might have
been. In contrast, Bob and Charlotte’s relationship in “Lost in Translation” is a new and
unexpected connection that helps them cope with their current dissatisfaction.
Search for Identity: Both Little Chandler and the characters in “Lost in Translation” are in
search of their identities. Little Chandler is torn between his domestic life and his poetic
ambitions. Bob and Charlotte are at different stages of their lives but are both seeking purpose
and direction, finding solace in their unlikely friendship.

Internal vs. External Worlds: Joyce’s novella delves into Little Chandler’s internal world, his
thoughts, and dreams, contrasting them with his external reality. “Lost in Translation” visually
and narratively captures the internal worlds of Bob and Charlotte against the vibrant and bustling
backdrop of Tokyo.

Moment of Epiphany: Both stories culminate in a moment of epiphany for the main characters.
Little Chandler realizes the vast gulf between his dreams and his reality when he hears his child’s
cry, symbolizing his trapped existence. In “Lost in Translation,” the whispered words between
Bob and Charlotte at their farewell represent a personal revelation and acceptance of their
respective journeys.

In conclusion, both “A Little Cloud” and “Lost in Translation” offer poignant insights into the
human condition, examining how individuals cope with their sense of disconnection and the
pursuit of meaning in their lives. The novella and the film, through their respective protagonists,
highlight the universal themes of alienation, cultural displacement, and the quest for identity,
making them resonate with audiences across different eras and cultures.