1. Point of View:
* First Person: The narrator is a character within the story, using "I" or "we." This provides a personal and subjective perspective.
* Second Person: The narrator directly addresses the reader, using "you." This is less common in literature but can be found in poetry or experimental fiction.
* Third Person: The narrator is an outside observer, using "he," "she," "it," or "they." This can be:
* Limited: The narrator knows the thoughts and feelings of only one character.
* Omniscient: The narrator knows the thoughts and feelings of all characters.
2. Tone and Style:
* Formal vs. Informal: Does the voice use elevated language or slang?
* Serious vs. Humorous: Is the tone lighthearted, sarcastic, or somber?
* Objective vs. Subjective: Does the voice present facts impartially or with personal opinions?
3. Purpose and Effect:
* Why is the voice chosen? Does it enhance the story's realism, create suspense, or offer a particular perspective?
* How does the voice affect the reader? Does it evoke empathy, anger, or amusement?
Example:
In "The Great Gatsby," the narrator, Nick Carraway, is a first-person observer. His voice is often introspective and somewhat cynical, giving us a glimpse into the complexities of the characters and the Roaring Twenties. The novel's themes of love, loss, and the American Dream are filtered through Nick's perspective, shaping the reader's understanding of these themes.
Overall, analyzing the voice in a piece of literature allows us to gain a deeper understanding of the story's meaning, themes, and characters.