.jpg)
The Literary style of Cash in an Unspecified Novel
The novel employs a distinctive dialog style attributed to the character ”Cash,” characterized by its directness, almost stark quality, and unexpected blend of harshness and insight. This approach creates a unique conversational dynamic, likened to a combination of gritty realism and philosophical inquiry.
Cash’s dialogue is described as ”blunt, even a little wooden,” yet simultaneously possessing a “quicksilver touch.” This suggests a deliberate stylistic choice, where simplicity and directness are used to convey complex emotions and ideas.The comparison to a “twisted after-school special” highlights the dialogue’s potential for confronting arduous or uncomfortable truths, while the reference to Hal Hartley films points to its existential undertones.
An example of this stylistic effect is the presence of a paddle inscribed “Holy Sisters’ Paddleball champion” hanging in Mother Superior’s office. This detail, described as rumored to hold significance, exemplifies the novel’s use of seemingly mundane objects to evoke deeper meanings and suggest hidden narratives. The paddle serves as a concrete image representing the complex power dynamics and unspoken histories within the girls’ school.
Characterization Through Dialogue
The dialogue style of Cash is integral to her characterization, revealing her personality and worldview through the way she interacts with others. The contrast between the bluntness of her speech and the underlying “quicksilver touch” suggests a character who is both straightforward and perceptive.
This approach allows the author to convey Cash’s internal state without relying on extensive internal monologue or descriptive passages. Instead, her thoughts and feelings are revealed through her choice of words, her tone, and the way she responds to the challenges and complexities of her environment.
The description of the dialogue as ”sometimes brutal, sometimes winning” indicates a character who is not afraid to confront difficult truths or express unpopular opinions. This willingness to engage with uncomfortable realities is a defining characteristic of Cash, and it is effectively communicated through her distinctive dialogue style.
Influence and Comparisons
The novel’s dialogue style draws comparisons to both the conventions of the “twisted after-school special” and the films of Hal Hartley, suggesting a deliberate attempt to blend different genres and aesthetic approaches. This fusion creates a unique and compelling narrative voice.
After-school specials are often characterized by their directness and willingness to address sensitive topics, albeit within a relatively conventional framework. Hal Hartley’s films, on the othre hand, are known for their minimalist aesthetic, philosophical themes, and unconventional dialogue. By combining these two influences, the novel creates a dialogue style that is both accessible and intellectually stimulating.
The comparison to Hal Hartley’s films is particularly significant, as it suggests a shared interest in exploring the complexities of human relationships and the search for meaning in a seemingly absurd world. The novel’s dialogue,like Hartley’s films,invites the reader to question assumptions and consider choice perspectives.
