Innovative Literary Devices in 1919 John Dos Passos College

Too often in literature, novels surrounding a specific time period lack the authenticity of mise-en-scene for the reader. However, author John Dos Passos commits to unique and innovative writing techniques in his novel 1919 (one of the three entries in the U.S.A. Trilogy) to deliver atmosphere, tone, and realism. Dos Passos’ original use of literary devices is evident through his character development, use of historical figures or persons, intentional details in setting and tone, and through “The Camera Eye” and “Newsreel” shorts. By providing such meticulous details, Dos Passos imparts to the reader a better grasp of the setting while having a more authentic and enlightening reading experience. Dos Passos also effectively tells his story of 1919 with honesty and critiques pertaining to the American lifestyle during the early 20th century particularly for low-income citizens.

Dos Passos’ techniques within the narrative surrounding character development are strategic yet gripping. The narrator seems to be omniscient and Dos Passos uses this tool uniquely to expose his characters crumbling lives and the turmoil surrounding the time period, while also subtly expressing his ironic tone. For example, when introducing Eveline...