Analyzing an author’s craft requires a deep dive into the details of how one writes. Octavia E. Butler departs from conventional plot structure in Kindred. She uses flashbacks, foreshadowing, and subplots to develop mood and characterization.
To start, let's look at Butler’s use of these three types of plot structures. First of all, she uses a flashback when Dana is unexpectedly transported back to the antebellum South for the first time, which occurs on page 8. Secondly, she uses foreshadowing when Dana feels a sense of dread before returning to the past, as described on page 23 when she senses “something dangerous” about her next trip. Thirdly, she utilizes subplots when exploring the relationship between Dana and her husband, Kevin, which is highlighted on page 104 as their dynamic shifts with each of her time-traveling experiences. These tactics serve to develop mood and characterization.
To continue, the author develops a mood of tension and uncertainty throughout the novel. For example, the text states, “I could feel something terrible was going to happen” (page 27). To explain, the plot of the piece promotes feelings of anxiety and fear as Dana navigates her perilous situations in the past. Through this, the reader can relate to the character, understanding her fear and confusion.
Altogether, Butler has crafted a character, namely the piece’s protagonist: Dana Franklin. She makes use of delicate details, including the plot pieces addressed above and vivid verbs, such as “struggled” (page 43) and “fought” (page 61). To elaborate, these actions show this character to be resilient and determined. This leads to lessons learned as the character is developed throughout the literary piece. All this is to show growth in her understanding of her own identity and history.
In conclusion, writers reach their readers through words, and this work shows strengths in innovative narrative techniques, emotional depth, and character development. This reader believes this book was both enlightening and thought-provoking, providing an essential perspective on the complexities of history and identity.