Direct Presentation in Literature: Example
Example:
From "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald:
> "He had on a dress suit and patent leather shoes, and I couldn't help noticing his elaborate formality of manner. He was a man of about forty, with a hard, thin face and a cruel mouth. He had a clipped accent, and his words were delivered with an odd precision that made them sound like they were being punched out of a machine."
Analysis:
* Direct Presentation: The narrator directly describes Tom Buchanan's appearance, personality, and mannerisms. We are told that he is "hard," "thin," has a "cruel mouth," and speaks with a "clipped accent" and "odd precision."
* Effect: This direct presentation creates a clear and immediate image of Tom in the reader's mind. We immediately understand that he is a man of power, control, and potentially danger.
Contrast:
Indirect Presentation:
> "He entered the room with a loud laugh and a booming voice that seemed to fill the space. He slapped his friend on the back, his hand a heavy weight that made the other man wince. He ordered a drink, demanding the strongest whiskey they had, and tossed it back with a practiced ease that made the others envious."
Analysis:
* Indirect Presentation: Here, we learn about Tom's personality through his actions and interactions. He laughs loudly, slaps his friend hard, and orders strong drinks.
* Effect: This indirect presentation allows us to infer Tom's character. We understand that he is boisterous, powerful, and possibly insensitive. However, the reader is given the freedom to form their own interpretation based on these actions.
Conclusion:
Direct presentation offers a more straightforward and immediate understanding of a character, while indirect presentation allows for greater nuance and leaves room for the reader to draw their own conclusions. Both techniques are valuable tools for authors to use in crafting their narratives.