In this essay, we will take a look at the language used in "The Walrus and the Carpenter" by Lewis Carroll and "The Cop and the Anthem" by O. Henry. By looking at how each author writes, we can learn something about the time and place in which they lived.
First, let’s talk about Lewis Carroll, who wrote "The Walrus and the Carpenter." He lived in England during a time when Queen Victoria was in charge. This period was known for new inventions and big changes, like the Industrial Revolution. Carroll's language often feels playful and silly, which reflects a time when children were starting to be recognized more in society. For example, in the poem, the Walrus and the Carpenter say, “The time has come, the walrus said, to talk of many things.” This shows a sense of wonder and imagination that was popular in Victorian children's literature. Carroll used whimsical words and rhymes that highlight the importance of creativity and storytelling during a time when many new stories were being written for young readers.
Now, let’s look at O. Henry and his story, "The Cop and the Anthem." O. Henry wrote this story during a time of great change in America. He wrote most of his stories around the early 1900s, when cities like New York were bustling with people and filled with new ideas. In "The Cop and the Anthem," O. Henry uses everyday language that feels very real and relatable. For example, he describes the main character, Soapy, who dreams of getting arrested just to stay warm in the winter. His thought process, “He had no desire to steal...but the warmth of a cell was better than the cold street,” shows us how hard life could be for some people during this time, especially with so many people struggling in growing cities. This kind of language gives us insight into the challenges of life in urban America during the early 1900s.
In conclusion, both authors used their unique language and styles to reflect the important ideas of their times. Lewis Carroll’s fun and imaginative words show us the Victorian love for children’s stories, while O. Henry’s realistic language gives us a glimpse into the struggles of city life in America. By analyzing their texts, we not only enjoy their stories but also learn about history and culture.