As we are presented with an introduction and background to the narrator in the first four chapters of the book, what I found most intriguing were the different status images that were presented. While the narrator describes events and facts in his life- such as his living conditions and being forced to fight senselessly- that suggest a total lack of control or dignity, his constant inner dialogue is founded on a basis of superiority. He holds steadfast value in his ability to articulate and identify himself as an educated person, and establishes a strict hierarchy which he acts upon. “…I felt that only these men could judge truly my ability, and now this stupid clown was ruining my chances.” (Pg. 25) The making of this personal standard, however, is unseen by the readers, and we do not immediately see the connection made between his situational positions of power. This is ultimately a purposeful yet extremely delicate technique that dictates the transparency of the character’s internalizations, and can result in either absolute empathy or extreme isolation between the narrator and a reader depending on the latter’s ability to relate to the system of logic present in the story.
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