El Salvador

Since Kevin and Richard arrive in El Salvador as a brutal war is ravaging the country, they perceive it as chaotic, unpredictable, and violent: yet this violence is not an inherent part of the El Salvador setting, only a function of the plot. As such, Everett utilizes imagery and repetition to portray the natural setting of El Salvador as lush and beautiful: Kevin is repeatedly attracted to and comforted by the vibrant colors of the jungle and the plentiful lakes. This natural beauty contrasts sharply with the conflict and chaos that plagues the city. Everett utilizes parallels to strengthen this distinction: the frequent jungle rain is juxtaposed with the burning city, as soldiers light fires. Everett again utilizes repetition to build a sense of suspense in the city’s conflict: each time Richard and Kevin return to their hotel, there is a greater degree of chaos in...