The Stylistic Originality of the Novel “The Glass Castle” by Jeannette Walls

The article analyzes the linguistic and stylistic devices used by J. Walls which express the writer’s style of writing. The linguistic aspect of the writer’s creativity remains insufficiently studied since the researchers focused mainly on the literary aspect. The stylistics of the modern English language differs in a certain way from stable, traditional language forms. On the selected research material (Jannette Walls’s novel “The Glass Castle”) it can be seen that, over time, the allusions acquire a more modern character: in the mentioned novel, J. Walls refers not only to classic or ancient works (“Hercules”, “Lord of the Flies”) but even to more “simple” modern literature, children’s fairytale “The Wizard of Oz” by L. F. Baum. Allusion provides references and explanations that help the reader understand the meaning of symbols and places in the memoir. To enhance the effect, the writer sometimes uses jargon, vocabulary not inherent in traditional literature. J. Walls writes in such detail and uses so many images that the reader can visualize any described event. There is a lot of symbolism in the novel, and “The Glass Castle” is one of the most significant symbols of the work. It is also an extended metaphor for empty promises and false hopes. Comparison, which is used more often than any other stylistic means, makes the story real, bringing all the characters to life. Personification deserves special attention. Using this stylistic figure, the author reveals one of the main symbols of the novel – fire. As for Jeannette’s parents, they are frequently described with hyperbole. Thus, the use of certain stylistic means, their application, and their place in the novel plays an important role in creating a special and unique style of writing.