Point of View

Less is Lost is written from a first person point of view, through the lens of Freddy Pelu, Less’s partner. The author chose to employ this point of view in order to further his examination of loneliness. After Robert Brownburn’s death, Less feels lonely, unsure how he will make decisions without his ex-lover’s direction and insight. By detailing the protagonist’s struggle with loneliness as he attempts to save the Shack, face his father, and redefine his identity, through the lens of Freddy, Greer suggest that loneliness can be a self-inflicted emotion. By way of example, when Less visits Grinder’s Stand, Freddy wonders if “Arthur Less, [his] Prudent, [is he] lonesome too?” (156). While the partners are not together, Freddy is emotionally invested in their relationship and attempting to support and encourage Less throughout the novel. Less’s inability to recognize his...