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April 18, 2006
O'Connor and Language
"The little boy stared at her silently, his nose and eyes running. He was four or five. He had a long face and a bulging chin and half-shut eyes set far apart. He seemed mute and patient, like an old sheep waiting to be left out."
This quote might very well be one of the best descriptive passages I have ever read in a short story, or even a novel. Not only does O'Connor give the reader a coherent picture of what the character looks like, but she gives them a useful foray into the characters personality as well. From this single paragraph we learn that "Bevel's" silence isn't one of spite or anger, but merely the only possible state that seems right for his character. Here we see that silence becomes and suites him, while anything else would be out of character. This somewhat meek persona is continued on when Bevel hides in the folds of Mrs. Connin's coat at the sight of the old man.
Although I have a tendancy to get bored and let my mind wander while reading O'Connor's stories, I have to say that in this story at least, she has mastered the art of characterization perfectly. Kudos, Flannery.
Posted by PaulCrossman at April 18, 2006 03:47 AM