John Updike’s use of language and imagery in his poem “Marching Through a Novel” are used to convey a complex relationship between characters and the novelist that controls each one. The title suggests the characters “March” like on a battlefield, fighting for an outcome unbeknownst to all except the novelist at the very last second, mindlessly taking orders from a figure that all trust must be put into, a person who dictates each and everyone’s move. Updike describes his characters as loyal followers in the beginning of the poem, like people looking to God or a deity to get through the perilous day the author has in store. The novelist describes the obstacles not only the characters will face but he as well; creating the illusion that he
