Point of View

The narrator of the novel is the detective Spenser. He speaks in the first person throughout the novel, balancing inner monologue with outward dialogue. Spenser's voice is distinctive and honest; although he does not always know what he is talking about, he will be the first to admit it. His reliability, therefore, is unimpeachable. He is willing to discuss even the most unattractive qualities in any person, including himself and his loved ones. However, in his point of view, certain characters, namely Susan and Paul, have very few flaws. Spenser discusses Susan's abandonment of him, but from the perspective of a friend as well as a lover. Spenser scoffs at Paul's observations of his vulnerability, but inwardly admires the young man's insight.

Maintaining a constant point of view allows Parker to control the knowledge and foresight of the reader. If the reader only knows as much...