Point of View

The novel is written from the first person point of view of the main character Boulder. Because the novel is so interested in exploring the individual’s experiences of identity, loneliness, and freedom, this point of view provides the reader an organic avenue into the protagonist’s psyche and consciousness. Boulder’s first person perspective indeed dictates the contours of the narrative world, as well as its central stakes, conflicts, and themes. The reader might refer to a passage from Chapter 1 in order to better understand this formal dynamic. While still on board the boat, Boulder admits that “I think in order to plaster over my feelings” (20). The movements of her mind therefore become the driving force behind the narrative structure, form, and trajectory. Instead of entertaining her feelings, she says, “I try to steer clear of them. I don’t study myself; I think...