Dicey's Song | Literary Qualities

Dicey's Song Literary Qualities

Voigt employs strong characterization and eloquent language in this novel.

Through her precise, plain-spoken narrative, the author brings her characters to life, smoothly integrating each character's distinct qualities and growth into the plot.

Dicey's character is the most fully developed; the third-person narrator relates Dicey's experiences and also explores her writing, thoughts, and deepest feelings. Before the first chapter commences, the story begins inside Dicey's mind with a description of her thoughts as she stands in the moonlight, reflecting on the summer. Rather than providing a nutshell characterization of Dicey, Voigt allows her to slowly emerge through these inward glimpses and through Dicey's conversations and interactions with others.

Gram's character is also strongly developed, though the reader never sees her inner thoughts. Her presence balances the story; because she provides matriarchal authority and nurturing, Dicey's responsibilities are lessened, and she is free to be...
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