Creating a Peeping Tom: Pornography and Visuality in Lars Ramslie's Fatso

Abstract

Taking Fatso (2003) as an example, this article explores how cultural emphasis on the visual influences the thematics and aesthetics of the contemporary novel. Theories of masculinity and the gaze inform this critical reading of Norwegian author Lars Ramslie’s thematization of the relationship between looking, (lack of) sex, and gender in modern (Western) society. In addition, the article shows how narrative strategies and techniques also found in porno-graphy and porn movies stress visuality in the text and create a specific role and experience for readers, namely the Peeping Tom who «sees all».