Invasion from mars:
Review Mr Wilmuth’s conversation with Carl Phillips. Analyzes choice of language such as using listenin’ and ain’t. How does Mr. Wilmuth’s information language style add to the overall feeling of his story? Elaborate on how applying more formal language might change the way we interpret Mr Wilmuth’s narrative. Identify a specific part in the interview where incorporating more formal words could potentially change the impact of his storytelling.
Mr. Wilmuth’s conversation with Carl Phillips in "Invasion from Mars" reveals his experience of witnessing a Martian invasion. The author strategically incorporates certain language choices, such as using "listenin’" and "ain’t," to add depth to Mr. Wilmuth’s character and contribute to the overall feeling of his story. The use of informal language helps to create a sense of authenticity and enhances the impact of his storytelling.
Mr. Wilmuth’s choice to use "listenin’" instead of "listening" reflects his vernacular speech pattern. This colloquialism not only adds credibility to his character but also makes his narrative relatable to the audience. The colloquial language creates a connection between Mr. Wilmuth and the readers, as it gives the impression that he is speaking directly to them in a casual and intimate manner. By employing familiar language like "listenin’," the author invites readers to engage with the story on a personal level, thus intensifying the impact of Mr. Wilmuth’s narrative.
Similarly, the use of "ain’t" instead of "isn’t" further contributes to the authenticity of Mr. Wilmuth’s character. "Ain’t" is a non-standard contraction that is commonly used in informal speech, and its inclusion reveals Mr. Wilmuth’s less-educated and rural background. This language choice demonstrates the author's commitment to portraying Mr. Wilmuth as a genuine and honest individual who is recounting his experience from his own perspective.
Applying more formal language to Mr. Wilmuth’s narrative would undoubtedly alter the overall interpretation and impact of his storytelling. If he were to use formal words, such as "listening" instead of "listenin’," it would create a more refined and sophisticated tone. This shift to formal language might distance the readers from Mr. Wilmuth’s character, making his story seem less personal and relatable. The language choice plays a critical role in ensuring Mr. Wilmuth's narrative feels authentic and genuine, and by using more formal language, the emotional connection with the readers could be weakened.
One instance where incorporating more formal language could potentially change the impact of Mr. Wilmuth’s storytelling is when he describes the moment the Martian cylinder fell from the sky. He says, "And then I heard it! A screamin’ sound. Like a siren, it was…" The use of "screamin’" instead of "screaming" intensifies the sense of urgency and fear in his story. Changing it to "screaming" would reduce the vividness of the description and diminish the level of excitement and terror that the readers experience. Therefore, the use of less formal language in this particular part enhances the impact of Mr. Wilmuth’s storytelling.
In conclusion, Mr. Wilmuth's choice of language, including colloquialisms like "listenin’" and "ain’t," adds to the overall feeling of his story in "Invasion from Mars." By using informal language, the author fosters a sense of authenticity and creates a more personal connection between Mr. Wilmuth and the readers. Applying more formal language would alter the interpretation of Mr. Wilmuth’s narrative, potentially distancing the readers and diminishing the emotional impact of his storytelling.