Literary Techniques
- Italicized Text
Bell uses italicized text liberally in Faces in the Moon. The italicized portions of the book are dedicated to times of intense emotion rather than the facts that make up the backbone of the story. It is important to notice when Bell utilizes italics. She uses it in the horrendous rape scene between Lucie and J.D as well as in Lucie’s dreams when she is running from the wild dogs. Changing from regular font to italicized font signals the reader to pay attention to the differences between the two. Bell uses italics to not only convey powerful feeling but also as an escape for Lucie. For example, when Lucie wants to hear her mother’s words, she “hears” them through the italicized text. However, she can also use the italicized words as a way to escape unpleasant feelings by dismissing them as dreams.
- Language and Diction
Bell’s choice of language and diction helps to form a story reminiscent of an oral narrative. Gracie and Rozella’s conversation at the kitchen table is one of the best examples of this literary technique. Bell gives her characters certain attributes that allow readers to easily connect to the story. Rozella and Gracie talk over a cup of coffee and a cigarette. They use slang and other expressions that make them relatable to readers. This technique is so rampant throughout the novel that I have identified it as a theme. For more information on oral storytelling in Faces in the Moon, please see the listing under Major Themes.
Read more about this topic: Faces In The Moon
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