The section headings in The Handmaid's Tale are very short, one or two word phrases. This alone evokes questions with the readers because just reading the headings at the beginning of the text leaves people wondering what they could mean. This is further shown by the fact that almost every other heading is "Night". This leads readers to believe that maybe the book is written as if the events in the book are only occurring over a few days, as each chapter between night is simply the normal daily routine. The headings are "Night", "Shopping", "Waiting", "Nap", "Household", "Birth Day", "Soul Scrolls", "Jezebel" and "Salvaging". To me, none sound like particularly positive headings, therefore giving the impression that the book may not be an especially happy book. I think that these short headings are very important and effective, as they leave the reader wondering more and wanting to know what they're about. I think they work very well being so short.
Just from the first chapter, it is clear to see how well written the book is. A lot of literary devices are used right from the beginning of the book. The book starts with the narrator speaking about the past, but the strong descriptive words give the impression that everything's still fresh in her mind. The use of oxymorons is also very effective. The "Angels" are said to carry guns, which leads the reader to wonder why they're referred to as angels if they're carrying guns, when angels are normally considered very innocent. In general, I feel the book is written to make the reader wonder and ask questions, therefore wanting to read on.
Some attempt to engage with the literary techniques used though more cursory than it might be. ALso an attempt at evaluation though not successful as you are too general in your comments. WHen you evaluate you need to explain how and why a particualr technique is successful.
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