. Structure of the text
Stevens recounts moments of his life in diary entries while action simultaneously progresses in his present travel to reunite with Miss Kenton. Over the six-day journey of the novel, Stevens grows closer and closer to the realization of his past mistakes and missed opportunities as his definitions of dignity and greatness additionally evolve. The lack of a day five journal entry demonstrates how Stevens needs time to process the intense emotions that he experiences after this realization before he can move on in life.
2. Conflicts: internal/external? Resolved?
Stevens struggles with an inability to acknowledge and voice his feelings for Miss Kenton. Their relationship blossoms very gradually and Miss Kenton gave Stevens many opportunities to express …show more content…
Importance of setting
In the beginning of the novel, Stevens relates his definition of greatness to the English landscape. Throughout his journey, a change in setting often prompts reflection on the part of Stevens (the ponds, etc.). In each location, Stevens also encounters people who mention Lord Darlington which subsequently causes Stevens to ponder the extent to which Lord Darlington was actually a good man.
4. Voice/ Point of View
The novel is related from Stevens’ point of view. Stevens’ memories are often very detailed, but he occasionally needs to correct them. Stevens written words contain bias and denial so readers must read between the lines to discover his true emotions. For instance, Stevens often relates that he feels “triumph.” However, when Stevens writes this, he is avoiding and denying the painful facts of his father’s death, of Miss Kenton’s marriage, and of his employment to a Nazi sympathizer.
5. Symbols/Motifs
Stevens’ car: Stevens’ car encounters many issues and mechanical problems throughout his journey which result in delays. These issues parallel Stevens’ subconscious and demonstrate his attempt to deny and avoid the eventual realization that he must come
Stevens recounts moments of his life in diary entries while action simultaneously progresses in his present travel to reunite with Miss Kenton. Over the six-day journey of the novel, Stevens grows closer and closer to the realization of his past mistakes and missed opportunities as his definitions of dignity and greatness additionally evolve. The lack of a day five journal entry demonstrates how Stevens needs time to process the intense emotions that he experiences after this realization before he can move on in life.
2. Conflicts: internal/external? Resolved?
Stevens struggles with an inability to acknowledge and voice his feelings for Miss Kenton. Their relationship blossoms very gradually and Miss Kenton gave Stevens many opportunities to express …show more content…
Importance of setting
In the beginning of the novel, Stevens relates his definition of greatness to the English landscape. Throughout his journey, a change in setting often prompts reflection on the part of Stevens (the ponds, etc.). In each location, Stevens also encounters people who mention Lord Darlington which subsequently causes Stevens to ponder the extent to which Lord Darlington was actually a good man.
4. Voice/ Point of View
The novel is related from Stevens’ point of view. Stevens’ memories are often very detailed, but he occasionally needs to correct them. Stevens written words contain bias and denial so readers must read between the lines to discover his true emotions. For instance, Stevens often relates that he feels “triumph.” However, when Stevens writes this, he is avoiding and denying the painful facts of his father’s death, of Miss Kenton’s marriage, and of his employment to a Nazi sympathizer.
5. Symbols/Motifs
Stevens’ car: Stevens’ car encounters many issues and mechanical problems throughout his journey which result in delays. These issues parallel Stevens’ subconscious and demonstrate his attempt to deny and avoid the eventual realization that he must come