Introduction to Postmodernism Post-apocalyptic World in Butler’s “Speech Sounds”

Octavia Butler “The child in each of us knows paradise Octavia Butler “The child in each of us knows paradise. Paradise is home” (Butler). Accomplishments American Science Fiction Writer Short Story Writer Novelist Winner of the Hugo /Nebula Award

Post-apocalyptic World of “Speech Sounds” Minimalist Style, Fragmented Protagonist Helps to propel the story forward in a quick fashion Simple concise sentences creates tension and subtle suspense Fragmented Protagonist (Rye) Teacher who has been deprived of her skills Cautious yet vulnerable Aggressive with a nurturing side Jealous with a remorseful side

Post-apocalyptic World of “Speech Sounds” Setting Post-Apocalyptic California (Low Tech Society) From a once idealized world to a chaotic world Low-tech setting to “dehumanize” and “humanize” Rye Environment contributes to jealousy and violence

Post-apocalyptic World of “Speech Sounds” “The child in each of us knows paradise. Paradise is home” (Butler). Plot From Hopelessness to Hope of reestablishing order Characters From Middle of Language Loss to Hope of Language Formation Setting From Post-apocalyptic Setting to Hope of Reestablishing Setting