Intrusion Fantasy as a Cathartic Tool in Patrick Ness A Monster Calls

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Since its publication in 2011, A Monster Calls has attracted the attention of scholars in various ways. The novel is classified as a low fantasy or intrusion fantasy. Previous studies attempted psychoanalytical reading; other studies took stylistic investigation and the rest were thematic. This study analyzes the connection between fantasy and reality and how the supernatural intrudes into the real life of the child hero, Conor. It examines the four stories and how they trespass the main plot in a magical way to save Conor from his nightmares and sufferings. This study attempts to investigate the use of intrusion fantasy as a cathartic tool which is manipulated to help Conor to overcome his bereavement and prepare him to accept his mother’s terminal illness. The paper argues that the intrusion fantasy has a purgatory effect that transformed Conor’s personality from denier into a resilient one. The study also traces Conor’s cathartic journey to achieve internal peace and settlement. In the analysis, the researcher looks at the cathartic effect not from Aristotelian point of view, but from a psychological point of view. The analysis will also shed light on Conor’s psyche and how he becomes mentally purged and gains peace of mind.