In "The Walrus and the Carpenter" written by Lewis Carroll and "The Cop and the Anthem" by O. Henry, the language used helps us understand the times when these authors were writing. Lewis Carroll lived during Queen Victoria’s reign in England (1837-1901), while O. Henry was writing in the early 1900s in New York City. Both periods were filled with important changes.
In "The Walrus and the Carpenter," Carroll uses playful and whimsical language that creates a dreamlike atmosphere. The characters, who are a walrus and a carpenter, speak in rhymes and have a lighthearted feel. For example, Carroll writes, "The time has come, the walrus said, to talk of many things." This line shows the importance of conversation and ideas, reflecting a Victorian society that valued creativity and imagination. The Royal family and advancements in technology during this period encouraged artists and writers to explore new ideas in fun ways.
On the other hand, O. Henry's language in "The Cop and the Anthem" is more straightforward and sharp. He uses urban language that reflects life in a busy city like New York. When he describes a homeless man named Soapy trying to get arrested to find a warm place to stay, O. Henry writes, “He was not a bad fellow; he was merely a victim of an unkind fate.” This line shows the struggles and hardships people faced during rapid urban growth, highlighting issues like poverty and survival. O. Henry's story captures the reality of life during a time when many were moving to cities for jobs and new opportunities, yet faced many challenges.
In both texts, the language helps us understand the world around the authors. Carroll's playful and imaginative language represents a Victorian culture that celebrated creativity, while O. Henry's more realistic language reflects the tougher realities of early 20th-century urban life. Through their unique styles, we can see how each author was influenced by the changes in society during their times.
1 answer