In Maestro, Peter Goldsworthy effectively uses narrative features to communicate Australian visions, whether it be an image of an Australian city or a portrayal of a person. One particular Australian vision depicted in the narrative is the vision of Darwin.
In his portrayal of Paul’s perspective on Darwin, Goldsworthy employs numerous descriptive adjectives. Upon Paul and his family’s arrival in the city, the author employs highly descriptive language to convey Paul’s adoration for Darwin. The words “those hot, steamy perfumes that wrapped about me… Moist, compost air. Sweet-sour air…” vividly depict the atmosphere in Darwin, characterized by a steamy climate accompanied by a mixture of sweet and sour scents. Through the skillful use of adjectives, Goldsworthy captures the tropical essence of Darwin’s weather.
Metaphors and similes were utilized by Paul to depict his vision of Darwin. The experience of walking through the city at night was akin to strolling amidst a series of lit screens. This metaphor paints a vibrant picture of the glistening streets in Darwin following rainfall. Similes such as “As if the leaves were a kind of plastic” and “Like some lush, green five o’clock shadow” effectively convey Paul’s perception that Darwin resembles a fantastical realm, where everything is magnified in terms of color, form, and texture.
Goldsworthy employs various narrative techniques to create a vivid portrayal of Darwin in Maestro. Through the use of descriptive language, humor, and metaphors, Goldsworthy contrasts Keller’s appearance and character. In Paul’s initial impression of Keller, Goldsworthy utilizes descriptive passages such as “the red glow of his face” and “the pitted, sun-coarsened skin – a cheap, ruined leather” to vividly depict Keller’s physical appearance and contrast it with other heights like migrant-height, European-height, and wop-height.
He has a rough skin and a red glow on his face, appearing to be of medium height. Additionally, the conversation between Keller and Paul provides insight into Keller’s character, showcasing his wisdom, humor, and thoughts. Keller’s quotes, such as “Always the most difficult part of a race is the last step” and “Is water at fifty degrees half-boiling?”, evoke a sense of humor and wisdom for readers to think and feel.
