Stephen King uses dialogue and description to help characterize his editor.
• In which parts of the text do you get the best sense of who Gould is?
• Why are those parts effective?
To determine the parts of the text that provide the best sense of who Gould is, we need to analyze Stephen King's use of dialogue and description specifically focused on the character. Here are a few examples:
1. Dialogue: "You know something, Dave? You're entirely too intelligent for an editor. Intellect and critical acumen are like poison ivy to a novelist. Novelists get infected by the critical bug and write stuff nobody wants to read because it's 'important' or 'relevant.'"
This piece of dialogue not only showcases Gould's candid nature but also hints at his understanding of the publishing industry and his loyalty towards writers. His comment reveals his perspective on the potential pitfalls of being too intellectually driven.
2. Description: "He was a big man with a ruddy, weather-beaten complexion, a strong chin, and a ready smile."
This description offers physical details about Gould, portraying him as a robust and amiable individual. The phrase "weather-beaten complexion" suggests a seasoned character, potentially hinting at his experience in the publishing world. As a big man with a strong chin, he exudes confidence, which can influence his interactions with authors.
3. Dialogue: "What makes you think I want it on the written page? Art that needs to be explained is no art."
This line of dialogue showcases Gould's strong opinion on artistic expression. It highlights his stance on allowing readers to interpret and discover meaning for themselves, rather than having everything explicitly stated by the author. It conveys his inclination towards captivating storytelling rather than explaining every aspect of a narrative.
These parts are effective because they provide valuable insights into Gould's personality and professional beliefs. Through dialogue, Gould's direct and straightforward communication style is evident, reflecting his no-nonsense approach to working with authors. Additionally, the description helps the reader form a mental image of Gould, emphasizing his physical attributes that may align with his character traits. The dialogue also demonstrates his guiding principles concerning the balance between artistic freedom and accessibility, giving readers a deeper understanding of his role as an editor.