Representation of speech

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How does McEwan use the representation of speech and other stylistic techniques to show the attitude of Joe towards Jed?

Through the use of a dramatic event of the balloon accident, it is obvious to the reader that Jed Perry is becoming infatuated with Joe Rose. We can see this unfolding, and also Joe’s attitudes towards this in the form of various techniques and styles used in the novel.

        Firstly, the use of first person narrative throughout the novel gives us an insight into Joe’s innermost thoughts and feelings. The use of “Had I known what this glance meant to him at the time and how he was to construe it later and build around it a mental life, I would not have been so warm”. We know from these words, that Jed is going to become obsessed with Joe further in the novel, and we can see Joe’s reaction towards this.

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        At the beginning of the conversation in chapter two, Jed approaches Joe asking him “are you alright?” an immediate attempt at controlling the conversation. Joe does not reply to Jed showing the disinterest Joe has in engaging in conversation with Jed. “My silence was hostile”. It becomes apparent as you read, that Joe is the less confident speaker, even though he seems to be the most educated shown through the use of first person narrative, which gives an insight into his analytical and rational mind. Jed pushes the conversation to a place in which Joe is not comfortable with, shown ...

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