As I Lay Dying Darl Character Analysis

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In “As I Lay Dying”, William Faulkner uses both literal and figurative language to develop the dynamic character of Darl Bundren. Faulkner’s unique writing style gives both flat literal statements and makes the reader infer and draw their own conclusions about Darl, the second-oldest of the Bundren children. The literal language used provides the reader with solid information to build on, while the figurative language causes the reader to expand and analyze Darl as a character on their own. Darl is the first character Faulkner uses to narrate the book. Darl describes himself as a full head shorter than his brother, Jewel. Because Faulkner rarely uses physical descriptions to establish Darl’s character, readers are left to draw their own conclusions as to Darl’s physical appearance. From his very first chapter in the book, one can draw that Darl is very detail oriented. For example, his descriptions as he and Jewel are walking from the field are not necessary for understanding of the novel but, these somewhat unnecessary details help in the development of Darl’s character. Cora is the first to allude to Darl’s exceptional perception by revealing that people viewed Darl as “queer”. She also says “…it was between her and Darl that the understanding and the true love was. He just looked at her, not even coming in where she could see him and get upset, knowing that Anse was driving him away and he would never see her again.” Dewey Dell also describes Darl’s eyes, which she says "go further than the food and the lamp, full of the land dug out of his skull and the holes filled with distance beyond the land." She later says that "the land runs out of Darl’s eyes; they swim to pinpoints. They begin at my feet and rise along my body to my face, and then my dress is gone: I sit naked on the seat above the unhurrying mules, above the travail." Faulkner’s use of hyperboles and
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