English Commentary

McEwan uses Paul Marshall’s character to convey his implicit social class through the use of literary devices.

McEwan exploits sentence structure to portray Paul Marshall’s lack of accomplishment in his life, as he is able to illustrate all his success in a short rehearsed speech. Furthermore the elongated sentence also highlights his insecurities, as it portrays that Paul Marshall has rehearsed his speech thoroughly and there are no flaws or hesitation as he is speaking. The extended sentence may also emphasize a sense of urgency behind his words, as he doesn’t wish to be interrupted.

Paul Marshall owns a large company that manufactures chocolate “Amo.” He is very proud of his company and as a result feels the need to flaunt his wealth. Moreover his speech provides a detailed and passionate account about his product. His chocolate “Amo” bar could symbolize his character, as the “Amo Bar” is not filled with substantial cocoa, instead it is a chemically enhanced product. The product is not pure; it is simply a bad imitation of chocolate. Thus this conveys Paul Marshall’s character because beneath his wealthy and accomplished exterior there lies a fraud. Hence this accentuates his implicit class division; Paul Marshall remains a mystery.

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In addition the “Amo Bar” represents Paul Marshall’s involvement in the war and he believes he is making a real contribution to the war by aiding the soldiers with chocolate bars. His character is so proud of his “Amo Bar” that if it was to continue to prosper a “further five factories would be needed.” The alliteration used in this phrase is draw attention to Paul’s success.

Paul Marshall’s character ostentatiously describes the “large house” he purchased in “Clapham Common.”  He emphasizes the word “large” and “Clapham Common” as he conscious that he is promoting his wealth; ...

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