Language

Style of writing

The language used in the short story “Through the Wardrobe” by Lucy Caldwell highlights the main character’s anxiety caused by the society he lives in. The boy feels like a stranger in his own body and clearly defined gender roles make it hard for him to enjoy his childhood and adolescence. 

When it comes to the choice of words, the author introduces words and expressions that mirror the society we live in. For example, the boy’s father is “frustrated” with his son’s behavior and feels that he is “too bloody sensitive”. He also plays roughly with his son – “your dad elbows you in the ribs, pretends to punch your shoulder”. In this light, the words used by the boy’s father highlight his stereotypical expectations. 

In another light, the words and expressions used by the bo...