Diary of a Madman

The way that domination and control feed into systems of power is a central theme of “Diary of a Madman” that is explored through the symbolic eating of human flesh. Groups and individuals show their dominance by eating others whom they view as subservient and belonging lower down the social hierarchy. In the story, this domination exists across multiple dimensions within Chinese society and history. The “madman” believes that villagers devour those they perceive to be unrighteous, as in Wolf Cub Village. He also believes that the old devour the young, parents devour their children, and that the state metaphorically “devours” its people. Reversal of the traditional power structure begins as a central fear of the “madman.” As a government official, the notion that the general population would turn on and cannibalize him represents a reversal of the Confucian power structure.

However, as the story progresses, the “madman” realizes the extent of the barbarity around him. He sees that cannibalism is common throughout history, passed from one generation to another, even to his own family. The “madman” eventually understands his own role in the system of hierarchy and oppression. When considering whether his own older brother ate his sister, he realizes, “Who’s to say he didn’t slip some of her meat into the food we ate? Who’s to say I didn’t eat a few pieces of my younger sister’s flesh?” (XII).