Anansi Boys

Underlining the theme of Duality of the Self, mirrors and reflective surfaces appear often as a recurring motif within the novel. The first mention of a mirrored gazing ball happens early in the novel, though at this point it’s only referred to as a “lawn ornament” (31) that caused the rift between Fat Charlie and Mrs. Dunwiddy; later, the narrator reveals its significance. Shortly after, Fat Charlie discovers a photo of himself standing beside a mirror, so that the photo appears to show two boys. When Mrs. Higgler tells Fat Charlie about his brother, she draws his attention to the photo: “It is you, and it is also your brother” (36).

This statement is cleverly worded so that it is clear both boys are present within the photograph, but it’s not clear whether they have been separated or whether Spider still only exists inside Fat Charlie. If the latter, the moment suggests that mirrors not only reveal what’s true but also what’s more than true.

The gazing ball appears later, when Fat Charlie goes to visit Mrs. Dunwiddy and sees one in her yard; it immediately inspires a sense of profound terror. This moment works well to hint at the childhood experience that led to his separation from Spider, but it also alludes to the traditional folklore surrounding these ornaments.