Perspective

Following the Equator, by Mark Twain, is written in the first person point of view. The narrator is the author, who relates the experiences of his thirteen month travels around the world. The first person point of view allows the author to present the events that occurred in his presence and to present any background details and information that are relevant. While the first person point of view is usually considered limiting since the knowledge of the reader is confined to the knowledge of the storyteller, it is limiting in this case. Twain is relating his experiences and impressions as a traveler and the use of the first person point of view is quite appropriate. It allows the author to not only relate his experiences but also to present his views and opinions on various subjects related to the history and culture of the different countries and his...