Structure shapes meaning from "summary" of Aspects of the Novel by E M Forster
The structure of a novel is not a mere skeleton to be clothed in flesh; it is a skeleton with joints that determine the position of the flesh. Every element of a novel, every word, every scene, every character, is informed by the structure in which it is placed. It is the structure that gives meaning to the individual parts, that shapes and guides the reader's understanding of the work as a whole.
Consider the opening scene of a novel. The way in which it is structured, the pacing, the language used, all contribute to the reader's initial impression of the story. The structure sets the tone, establishes the mood, and lays the groundwork for what is to come. Without a carefully crafted structure, the opening scene may fail to capture the reader's attention, leaving them adrift and disengaged.
As the novel progresses, the structure continues to shape the reader's experience. The way in which events are arranged, the way in which characters interact, the way in which conflicts are resolved - all of these elements are influenced by the structure of the novel. A well-structured novel will lead the reader through a series of carefully orchestrated moments, building tension, creating suspense, and ultimately delivering a satisfying resolution.
But it is not just the plot of a novel that is shaped by its structure. The language used, the imagery employed, the themes explored - all of these aspects of a novel are influenced by the way in which the work is structured. A novel that is structured with care and precision will be rich in meaning, its various elements working together to create a cohesive and powerful whole.
In this way, the structure of a novel is not just a technical consideration, but a fundamental aspect of its meaning. It is through the structure that the author communicates with the reader, shaping their understanding of the work and guiding their emotional response. A well-structured novel is a work of art, its form and content inextricably linked in a harmonious whole.
