Language

Style of language

The short story “The Flowers” by Alice Walker is written using simple language, which makes the content straightforward and highlights the role of symbols. It also reminds the reader that that the story follows the perspective of a child. The story lacks dialogue, which makes it easier for readers to focus on a single character, Myop, and on her development. 

At the beginning, the choice of words highlights the idyllic rural atmosphere as seen through Myop’s eyes. Words and expressions with positive meanings, such as “golden surprise” (p. 107, ll. 4-5), “beautiful” (p. 107, l. 2), “light” (p. 107, l. 8), and “excited” (p. 107, l. 5) present the rural landscape, as well as Myop’s state of mind. 

As the story develops, words with negative meanings are inserted: ...