Point of View

A Ladder to the Sky is a unique novel in that it contains a variety of points of view as each section is narrated by a different character, allowing for each one to contribute to the construction of the main character, Maurice. The novel follows the chronological course of Maurice Swift's life and integrates various important figures throughout. The first section is written in first person point of view and is told by Maurice's first victim, Erich Ackermann. From this perspective, the reader is able to see how Maurice's actions emotionally affect the older writer who is obviously lonely and smitten with the young, beautiful man who has befriended him. And while Erich seems to know that he is being used for Maurice's own advantage, he can not help himself. Because Erich is telling his own story, he can best share his feelings and struggles...