Poison Ivy, Gail Simone And Albert Camus

Is Poison Ivy inspired by the works of Albert Camus? 

Albert Camus was a French philosopher, author, and journalist. He won the Nobel Prize in Literature at the age of 44 in 1957, the second-youngest recipient in history.

Camus was born in Algeria (a French colony at the time) to French Pieds Noirs parents. His citizenship was French. He spent his childhood in a poor neighborhood and later studied philosophy at the University of Algiers. He was in Paris when the Germans invaded France during World War II in 1940. Camus tried to flee but finally joined the French Resistance where he served as editor-in-chief at Combat, an outlawed newspaper. After the war, he was a celebrity figure and gave many lectures around the world. He married twice but had many extramarital affairs. Camus was politically active; he was part of the Left that opposed the Soviet Union because of its totalitarianism. Camus was a moralist and leaned towards anarcho-syndicalism. He was part of many organizations seeking European integration. During the Algerian War (1954 –1962), he kept a neutral stance, advocating for a multicultural and pluralistic Algeria, a position that caused controversy and was rejected by most parties.

Camus is known for articulating the case for revolting against any kind of oppression, injustice, or whatever disrespects the human condition. He is cautious enough, however, to set the limits on the rebellion. L'Homme révolté (The Rebel) explains in detail his thoughts on the issue. In the introduction, where he examines the metaphysics of rebellion, he concludes with the phrase "I revolt, therefore we exist" implying the recognition of a common human condition.

Now let's see two details from Batgirl Annual 2. 

In this one makes a reference to the famous Albert Camus quote: "The only way to deal with an unfree world is to become so absolutely free that your very existence is an act of rebellion"

And the second one, things are a bit more clear. I think both references are specific and intentional. I love Gail because she hides small details/gifts to those who will take the time and read carefully between the lines. 

To be able to choose, to own yourself may seem simple but in reality it's more difficult than you imagine. Batgirl is in a way "owned" by the status quo in a way Poison Ivy would never be. She is tagged with a brand. Ivy shows with a "pregnancy joke" that she is in control of not just herself and her body but in control of the "narrative" about her. She doesn't need to get branded because that would take away her freedom. And in a twist, her "freedom" is controlled by S.A.D.

I think it's an intentional choice. Batgirl Annual 2, one of the best Poison Ivy stories ever told is a story of Revolt and Liberation of oneself as described by Albert Camus. It's a tale of transformation, of shifting personalities, ideas and beliefs, of finding hope and salvation. Of how even two people can create a community. What do you think?

Want to Read More? Vines N' Roses Issue #2 Is out now! Chek it out! https://vinesnroses.blogspot.com/p/vines-n-roses-zine-issue-2.html