大象传媒

Form, structure and language - CCEALanguage and narrative devices

Roddy Doyle's use of the first person narrative voice allows us to access Paddy鈥檚 feelings and his disjointed thoughts. The characters' Irish accent and natural speech make the novel seem realistic.

Part of English LiteraturePaddy Clarke Ha Ha Ha

Language and narrative devices

Language refers to the choices of style and vocabulary made by the writer. When analysing the language Doyle uses you should think about:

  • what, the author鈥檚 choice of specific words and dramatic devices
  • where/how, the way in which the writer uses them
  • why, the effect on the reader

Many of the effects mentioned throughout when discussing character, themes, form and structure are created through Doyle鈥檚 innovative use of language and other narrative methods.

You will be expected to discuss these throughout your essay and analyse how they are used in every point that you make.

The following pages contain examples of some specific devices used by Doyle and some of the effects they may have on the reader.

You can refer to the sample question at the end, and to the sections on character and theme to see how discussion of these devices can be integrated into a clear argument in the exam.

Related links