My Brilliant Career: Style 1 key example

This vividness is also present in the author’s use of figurative language. Franklin’s writing is very detailed and full of imagery, creating a sensory and immersive reading experience. The novel's emphasis on imagery that invokes the senses brings the landscape of early 20th century Australia sharply to life, contributing to a strong sense of place and emphasizing Sybylla's girlish vigor and imagination. Franklin depicts every situation in Sybylla's life—sad or happy— with energy and invests it with emotion and feeling. The pacing of the novel aligns with Sybylla's journey of growth and self-discovery. Franklin frequently adjusts the rhythm of the book, slowing it down during moments when Sybylla’s life is slow and dull, and speeding it up during more dynamic and dramatic periods. This rhythmic variation in pacing reflects the ebb and flow of Sybylla's experiences.

Another important aspect of Franklin's writing style is her incorporation of Australian vernacular and dialect. She weaves Australian idioms and expressions into the narrative voice as Sybylla tells her story, and into the dialogue between characters. Doing this infuses the novel with a sense of authenticity, and is also part of the distinct character of Australian National Literature.