The Essential Nature of Change and Transitions in The Story of Tom Brennan, "Suicide in the Trenches," and Other Sources Anonymous 12th Grade

Confronting new phases and experiences assist in the development of growth, maturation and internal progression. This concept is undoubtedly evident within J C Burke’s novel ‘The Story of Tom Brennan’, the interview titled ‘2 of us’ by Dani Valent (Good Weekend March, 2011) and the poem ‘Suicide in the Trenches’ by Siegfried Sassoon. Through the use of a sophisticated array of techniques and figurative language the composers are able to maintain high levels of authenticity throughout the duration of the texts, thus stimulating a more powerful response upon the audience whilst portraying the underlying concept that the experience of moving into the world can challenge an individual’s attitudes and beliefs.

The novel ‘The Story of Tom Brennan’ explores how individuals grow when they are taken out of their comfort and venture into new experiences creating a sense of insecurity. Written in first-person narrative style from Tom’s perspective, the narrative allows to reader to be immersed into the novel, while also capturing the emotions and perceptions of Tom, who unwillingly is forced into a new world as a result of a tragic decision by his older brother Daniel. Through the repetition of “F*ck!..F*ck!..No!..No!” emphasises the...