Point of View

The novel’s narration is written in the past tense and the third person. The narrative’s perspective changes fairly often throughout the novel, with the narration adhering to only one character’s perspective at any given time. However, due to the repeated shifts in perspective, the novel is able to create juxtapositions between the thoughts and perspectives of all of the central characters. David and Nicholas’ thoughts of hatred and aggression towards others are juxtaposed by Anne internal (and sometimes external) condemnations of such aggressive behavior. Eleanor’s feeling of entrapment is juxtaposed by Bridget’s sense of independence. These perspectives are further illustrated by the characters’ words and actions in addition to their thoughts.

This exploration of many perspectives also allows the novel to explore the many psychological causes and effects of the dysfunction that pervades the narrative. For example, David’s thoughts...