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  • Essay / Innovative literary devices in 1919

    Too often in literature, novels about a specific period lack the authenticity of the setting for the reader. However, author John Dos Passos is committed to using unique and innovative writing techniques in his novel 1919 (one of three entries in the American trilogy) to deliver atmosphere, tone, and realism. Dos Passos's original use of literary devices is evident through his character development, use of historical figures or figures, intentional details in setting and tone, and through the short films "The Camera Eye » and “Newsreel”. By providing such meticulous detail, Dos Passos gives the reader a better understanding of the setting while having a more authentic and enlightening reading experience. Dos Passos also effectively tells his 1919 story with honesty and criticism regarding the American way of life in the early 20th century, especially for low-income citizens. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essay. Dos Passos' techniques in the narrative surrounding character development are strategic yet captivating. The narrator seems omniscient and Dos Passos uses this tool only to expose the ruined lives of his characters and the turmoil that surrounded this period, while subtly expressing his ironic tone. For example, when introducing Eveline Hutchins, he mixes words to establish his irony and realism in the following passage: On the lower floor was Dr. Hutchins' office where your father must not be disturbed, and the bedroom of your dear mother where he stayed all morning painting dressed. In a lavender blouse. On the ground floor were the living room and dining room, where the parishioners came and the little children were to be seen and not heard, and at dinner time good things to eat could be smelled and heard and the fearful and booming voice of your father and when your father's voice sounded, all the voices in the company were silent (Dos Passos 83). The author combines common phrases like a typical American would while speaking intentionally to grab the readers' attention. Dos Passos also wants audiences to be aware of the negative aspects of American culture, creating a new take on a commonly clichéd technique. Short biographies of famous historical figures are interspersed throughout the 1919 story and display another innovative writing style. Dos Passos uses these characters as representatives of the era and often depicts them maliciously. Another important reason for these life stories is to give a face to American society at the time. Specifically, Dos Passos' biography of Woodrow Wilson conveys a dark message about the former President of the United States. One example where this is evident is when he writes: “The small town leaders and guardians looked at each other and scratched their heads; then they applauded; Wilson deceived the wise and betrayed the bosses, was elected by an immense majority” (Dos Passos 193). This passage clearly implies a negative tone towards "Meester Veelson" and explains that the once-praised president was not as great as he seemed. “The Camera Eye” is another compilation of short films juxtaposed with the character's environment, in which Dos Passos uses to convey his attitudes towards existence and humanity. While aiming to complement the narrative and the characters' experiences, the prose style is radically different from his predominantly realistic narrative style. “The Camera Eye” exhibits, 1946.