Language

Style of language

The language used by James Joyce in the short story “Eveline” is neutral. The author uses short and middle-length sentences, which make it easier for the readers to focus on what is being told: “She must escape! Frank would save her. He would give her life, perhaps love, too. But she wanted to live”. In this example we also notice the use of exclamations, which point to the character’s emotions and her sense of urgency.

Rhetorical questions are sometimes introduced to highlight Eveline’s inability to make a decision: “Was that wise?”, “Could she still draw back after all he had done for her?” These rhetorical questions show Eveline’s inner conflict, as she finds it difficult to choose between her duty to her family and her love for Frank.

The choice of words suggests...