Point of View

Gray Mountain is told from the third person narrative perspective. For the most part, the perspective is limited to everything that Samantha is feeling or thinking because she’s the main character. There are a few small sections where the narration takes on an omniscient view to talk about other events happening in the world, such as when Donovan passes away or when Buddy commits suicide. These sections are very brief, only lasting for a few pages. The main focus is usually on whatever Sam is thinking or feeling.

Language and Meaning

Since Gray Mountain focuses so much on Sam’s work as a lawyer, there are many legal terms and laws that get discussed. When Sam moves to Virginia there are also certain local terms that are used, especially when talking about the mining corporations. All of these terms are explained by the narrator...