Genre
Science Fiction
Setting and Context
The Far Future
Narrator and Point of View
Told from the point of view of Carey
Tone and Mood
Futuristic, Solemn, Disappointing, Chaotic, Sobering, Scientific, and Reminiscent
Protagonist and Antagonist
Carey (Protagonist) vs. Her struggles in her life (antagonist)
Major Conflict
Carey's inner struggle to find belonging despite constant changes throughout her life
Climax
There are several separate climaxes: in "Today," for example, the climax occurs when Mildred dies.
Foreshadowing
Carey's new purpose of helping Mildred's family is foreshadowed throughout the first story
Understatement
Carey's struggle are understated in the first section
Allusions
To science, popular culture (other books, particularly), Shoemaker's other works, and philosophy (particuarly Descartes).
Imagery
Shoemaker uses stark imagery to illuminate Carey's struggles to fit and accept herself.
Paradox
Carey is a machine, yet has more human emotions that real humans.
Parallelism
N/A
Metonymy and Synecdoche
Mildred's family = Paul Owens, Susan Owens, and Millie.
Personification
Carey, a machine, personified throughout the entire book.
