Tuesday, April 15, 2014

What is the importance to the theme of Language minimalism as seen throughout the novel. What implications does this have for us today?

The lack of descriptive language allows the actions of the
story to deliver a greater emotional impact. Oftentimes, overly descriptive language is
seen as a distraction or way of diffusing a story's action. Descriptive language may
also be seen as subjective, or creating a specific narrative viewpoint. In this novel,
the story arises from what the world has become, but the condition of the world is so
horrible and desolate that a detailed description of it might seem melodramatic or
artificial. The author achieves a level of authenticity via simple language. This
simplicity also comments upon the dissolution of humanity, and the selfish cruelty
engendered by desperation and survival. Since language and literature are seen as
hallmarks of human achievement, a lack of artful or descriptive language can underscore
a diminished experience of humanity, and the qualities that make humans noble (such as
compassion or generosity, which are qualities lacking in this world). Our increasing
tendency as a culture to eschew reading in favor of technological distractions is
sometimes seen as a contributing factor to a lack of civility and compassion in
contemporary culture.

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