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Definition of Tone
The tone of a piece of writing is its general character or attitude, which might be cheerful or depressive, sarcastic or sincere, comical or mournful, praising or critical, and so on. For instance... read full definition
The tone of a piece of writing is its general character or attitude, which might be cheerful or depressive, sarcastic or sincere, comical or mournful, praising or critical... read full definition
The tone of a piece of writing is its general character or attitude, which might be cheerful or depressive, sarcastic or sincere, comical... read full definition
Tone
Explanation and Analysis:
The tone in Purple Hibiscus is restrained and observant, as it’s primarily conveyed through Kambili’s viewpoint and she’s always watching for trouble. Her narration reflects her hesitation and uncertainty because of the constant danger that surrounds her in her home and in her fast-changing country. The reader experiences her filtering her observations through the cautious perspective of someone accustomed to fear.
During scenes involving her father Eugene’s abusive behavior, the narrator’s tone becomes detached and almost journalistic. It’s as though Kambili is stepping outside herself and providing the reader with only the most general details of the horrors she endures. This lack of information mirrors Kambili’s sense of powerlessness and confusion; neither the reader nor the narrator are able to grasp what’s happening fully. These moments also emphasize the overwhelming control Eugene exerts over the family and the silence that this control breeds within their household. Kambili can’t fully describe the things she endures because it’s hard for her to believe them herself. She can't reconcile the two sides of her father's personality. This restrained tone is consistent in the novel’s first part but begins to loosen toward the middle, when Kambili's circumstances change significantly. Her tight control over the information she relays in her narrative loosens when she’s away from home and no longer feeling threatened by Eugene.
When Kambili has these moments of safety and freedom, particularly during her stay at Aunty Ifeoma’s house, the tone actually becomes lighthearted and hopeful. As Kambili herself feels a spark of potential for change, this gets reflected in the way the narrator tells her story. The tone continues to evolve as Kambili starts to rebel against her father’s control and to observe Jaja doing the same. Although her emotions remain close and guarded, this change brings in a cautious sense of optimism to the novel. By the end of Purple Hibiscus, Kambili has survived the hardships inflicted upon her and has developed a more adult sense of resilience. Eugene is gone, and so his oppressive presence no longer hangs over her thoughts. However, though he is dead, her experiences leave her wary, as if she’s always expecting another blow. The final sentences hint at a glimmer of hope for the future, suggesting that even if things are still not fully repaired, they’re on their way to being fixed.
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