Analysis of Author’s Style Overall, Steinbeck’s style can be described as realistic (no exaggeration, true to real life). How do we arrive at author’s style? Let’s examine the first four paragraphs of chapter 5.

Imagery (what types of images) Element Description Diction (word choice) Steinbeck uses slightly elevated vocab but not that difficult to understand, e.g. “wisps of hay” instead of “pieces/strings of hay” “jeering” instead of “laughing,” “unfilled” instead of “empty.” Not very polysyllabic words. Imagery (what types of images) He uses much farm sensory imagery (images: hay, horses, barn; sounds: buzzing, clanging, humming). Farming images are usually considered very down-to-earth, uncomplicated, and simple. Figurative language (what types?) Steinbeck uses figurative language sparingly and usually compares things in a very easy to understand/direct way. Uses realistic examples usually from nature or farm life (e.g. the hay was like a mountain slope) Overall language character Semiformal language—Steinbeck uses standard punctuation, doesn’t use slang/curse words (narration only); he does use slang/curse words/abbreviations in the dialogue though to show the dialect of that era.

Element Description Syntax (sentence structure) Steinbeck uses mostly compound and simple sentences which focus on details but not necessarily cause/effect. He’s just trying to present the facts.