Language is the essence of human intelligence, allowing us to express our thoughts and ideas with words. This ability sets Homo sapiens apart from all other species. Throughout centuries, literature has transformed significantly, but the profound skill of employing literary techniques to convey empowering and insightful messages continues to ignite imaginations worldwide. Although the two stories diverge in their settings and premises, they share common themes that shape each narrative.
Within the text, certain themes consistently arise, encompassing religion, the exploration of values, and a divide between generations and cultures. To fully comprehend the text and its possible implications, it is crucial to acknowledge these themes while analyzing the language and its purpose. Both David Sedaris in “Jesus Shaves” and Flannery O’Connor in “Good Country People” employ language as a means to unveil the traits of their characters, depict intricate imagery of various settings, and offer subtle commentary that can be interpreted in numerous ways.
In “Jesus Shaves,” Sedaris immerses the reader in a French class where a discussion about the history and traditions of Easter unfolds. One student begins by stating, “It is,’ said one, ‘a party for the little boy of God who calls himself Jesus and… oh, shit” (Sedaris/Norton 416). Another classmate interrupts, saying, “He calls himself Jesus, and then he dies one day on two… morsels of… lumber” (Sedaris/Norton 416). The rest of the class joins in, sharing information that would have greatly perplexed the pope (Sedaris/Norton 416).
Sedaris effectively employs humor to make the reader feel as if they are present in the classroom, hearing these determined, rambling individuals misinterpret history. This method is evident not only in the characters’ use of overly casual language, but also in Sedaris’ timely commentary throughout the story. The brilliance of this tale lies in how Sedaris manage to shape an elegant viewpoint despite the unintelligent discussion grounded in hearsay by the characters.
Sedaris explores language in a unique manner, shifting from casual conversation to deeper philosophical discussions. He highlights the significance of faith when expressing religious beliefs and points out how our mere presence in a classroom signifies this concept (Sedaris/Norton 417). Through the ongoing debates of the French students, Sedaris aims to convey the notion of embracing unlikely possibilities and giving them the benefit of doubt (Sedaris/Norton 417).
In the story “Good Country People” by Flannery O’Connor, the author utilizes various language techniques to depict personalities and showcase the imagery of traditional southern culture in Georgia. The narrative revolves around a family that experiences a clash of generations and cultures, with a recurring theme of “ignorance is bliss.” Throughout the intricate storyline, the characters are described in a meticulous manner, providing an abundance of detail. Unlike many other works of literature where characters are introduced briefly as mere props for a potential film adaptation, O’Connor consistently presents an exaggerated yet appreciated portrayal of each individual whenever they appear in the text. Within the story, this approach is evident in the depiction of Mrs. Hopewell’s daughter.
In spite of her mother, Joy, an adult child, chose to change her name legally to Hulga. O’Connor describes Hulga’s name as bringing to mind the wide and empty hull of a battleship. Hulga’s past of education and rejection of conventional customs continually upsets Mrs. Freeman, leading O’Connor to somewhat align with Mrs. Freeman through language usage. It is possible that the author’s own personal experiences involved a childhood of challenging traditional values and a culture that promotes self-criticism.
The central event of the story occurs when a conman, pretending to be a religious advocate, meets the Hopewells. The conman wastes no time in explaining his purpose, saying, “Lady, I’ve come to speak of serious things…I know you believe in Christian service” (O’Connor/Norton 438). Initially, his intentions were ignored, but O’Connor’s use of language helps depict the rural south after WWII and also creates a sinister and manipulative tone as the conman tries to make his case.
Language possesses undeniable power as a means of expression and inadvertently conveys significant messages. Various factors contribute to the development of a story, but language exerts a significant influence, whether through a character’s dialogue or the author’s choice of words, shaping the narrative. Without the artistic medium of language, literature would undoubtedly suffer. Although numerous languages exist in today’s world, literature’s exceptional ability to stimulate intellectual and imaginative thought remains unparalleled.
