Point of View

The novel is told through the third person limited point of view, limited to the perspective of Moses Sweetland, the main character. This limited point of view doesn't allow the reader to know the thoughts and perspectives of other Chance Cove residents except through the filter of Moses Sweetland's consciousness. It also leaves open the question of whether Sweetland is experiencing supernatural occurrences in the second half of the novel, Sweetland is a ghost, or he is insane due to loneliness and injury. Sweetland's perspective and perceptions are in question throughout much of the novel, and occasionally get corrected by other characters who enlighten him.

Language and Meaning

The language of the novel is rich and poetic in exposition. The language of dialogue is colloquial and displays a regional use of language unique to Newfoundland, including language and slang quirks that place the novel clearly...