An unnamed narrator describes Marlow's personality and appearance.
The reader learns another characters opinions of Marlow's personality
The story within a story in Joseph Conrad's "The Lagoon" serves to provide layers of narrative depth and complexity. It intertwines past and present, blurring the boundaries between reality and fiction, ultimately highlighting themes of memory, storytelling, and the power of imagination. Through this narrative technique, Conrad invites readers to reflect on the nature of truth, perception, and the subjective nature of storytelling.
A story told by someone outside the story is known as third person narration. In this narrative mode, the storyteller is not a character in the story and conveys events from an external perspective. This type of narration can provide an unbiased view of the characters and events in the story.
Conrad Ross has written: 'Perceptual drawing' -- subject(s): Technique, Visual perception, Drawing
Achebe suggested that Conrad only saw the setting of Africa in its two extremes, silence and frenzy.
Werner Senn has written: 'Conrad's narrative voice' -- subject(s): Literary style
Conrad's writing style is characterized by rich imagery and complex narrative structures, often reflecting his experiences as a seaman. Shaw, on the other hand, is known for his sharp wit and satirical tone, using dialogue and humor to convey his ideas. While both authors address social and political themes, Conrad's works tend to delve into psychological complexities and moral dilemmas, while Shaw's focus on social critique and philosophical ideas.
Achebe points to Conrad's use of language and narrative perspective to suggest that Conrad approves of Marlow. Achebe argues that the way Conrad elevates Marlow's character and viewpoint, along with the lack of substantial critique of Marlow's actions, implies a form of endorsement by the author.
It allows the narrator to share reflections about previous important events.
In Achebe's critique of Conrad's novel "Heart of Darkness," he argues that Conrad's problem with the character of the African fireman is rooted in his portrayal as a dehumanized and simplistic figure, reinforcing colonial stereotypes and perpetuating the narrative of African inferiority. Achebe suggests that this portrayal reflects Conrad's own biases and limitations as a product of his time and context.
In Achebe's critique of Conrad's "Heart of Darkness," he argues that Conrad portrays Africa and its people as a backdrop to explore the existential question of human existence. Achebe criticizes this as dehumanizing and perpetuating harmful stereotypes about Africa and its inhabitants. By prioritizing the existential concerns of the European characters over the humanity of the African characters, Conrad's narrative reinforces colonialist attitudes.
In Chapter 1 of "Ordinary People," Conrad Jarrett has been home from the hospital for about eight months. He was hospitalized following a suicide attempt, and the narrative explores his struggles to readjust to life at home and the dynamics within his family. The chapter sets the tone for Conrad's ongoing challenges with depression and his relationships with his parents.