How Does Cormier Use Literary Techniques In We All Fall Down

WE ALL FALL DOWN

Discuss the ways in which the author of a prescribed text constructs their novel to explore the way that people deal with trauma.

Introduction

We all fall down, written by Robert Cormier, is a young adult thriller which probes into the idea of how suffering trauma allows for psychological torture and the effects trauma has on every-day life. The novel follows the traumatic events each of the three main characters, Buddy Walker, Jane Jerome and Mickey Stallings (the Avenger). Cormier expresses these ideas through literary techniques such as characterisation, setting and symbolism.

Teel 1

Cormier utilises characterisation to establish the psychological effects of trauma on one’s physical and mental state, introducing the reader to the understanding of the

Buddy states he doesn’t enjoy the taste of alcohol but enjoys the escape. Even though the group is a bad influence Buddy enjoys the feeling of belonging. Soon after Buddy’s welcoming to Harry’s group they decide to act on a crazy idea of Harry’s involving the vandalism of a home. The aftermath of the trashing leaves Buddy often reminiscing on the trashing Buddy’s left himself ‘if he was a monster for what he had done’ . The quote supports the idea of Buddy unsure with his identity through the changes in his behaviour. Buddy also felt remorse for the girl they had harmed stating “we shouldn’t have left the girl like that” this quote also supports the idea people are led to do unusual things due to a Trauma. The characterisation of the Avenger is complex and multifaceted. The Avenger is a disturbed and troubled individual, consumed by his need for revenge against the occupants of the Jerome household. Cormier's portrayal of the Avenger's characterisation is masterful, as he delves deep into the character's psyche, exploring the root causes of his violent and obsessive behaviour. However, the Avenger is not