Style Elements in “Lusus Naturae”

Introduction

“Lusus Naturae,” a short story by Margaret Atwood, dives into the strange sides of human nature, how society sees things, and what being a “monster” really means. The title, which means “freak of nature,” gives us a hint of what’s coming. It’s about a young girl who’s pushed away by everyone because of a weird and scary condition. Atwood uses lots of cool writing tricks like imagery, point of view, and symbols to make the story hit harder.

This essay will look at how these style elements help tell the story’s themes.

Imagery and Descriptive Language

One thing that really stands out in “Lusus Naturae” is Atwood’s use of vivid imagery. Her descriptive words paint a clear but often creepy picture of the girl’s changes and how people react to her. For example, she writes, “I was beginning to sprout hair in unexpected places. My teeth were growing longer and more pointed.” This kind of detail helps us see what the girl is going through, and makes us feel both sorry for her and a bit scared. These gross descriptions match her struggle inside and the way people treat her, helping us get what she’s dealing with.

Another big deal is the narrative perspective. The story is told in the first person, so we get to live through things from the girl’s point of view. This is super important because we hear her thoughts and feelings, which are often very different from what others think of her. Her voice is sad but also strong, as she tries to figure out who she is while being called a “monster” by everyone else. This first-person view makes us feel close to her and makes her story hit home.

Symbols are another big part of how Atwood tells the story. The girl’s condition can be seen as a symbol for society’s fears and biases. Her change into a “monster” shows how society often pushes away and dehumanizes anyone who’s different. The story also talks about “freak shows,” where people with unusual looks were shown off for fun. This highlights themes of using people and society’s creepy interest in the unusual. The girl’s choice to fake her death and live alone shows her rejecting society’s rules and looking for self-acceptance.

Atwood’s use of tone and mood is also key. The tone of “Lusus Naturae” is dark and sad, reflecting the girl’s loneliness and loss. Atwood’s words are beautiful but spooky, creating a mood that’s both eerie and thoughtful. For example, the girl’s thoughts about her condition and her place in the world are full of sadness. This tone and mood add emotional depth to the story and make readers think about its deeper meanings.

Conclusion

In the end, Margaret Atwood’s “Lusus Naturae” explores themes like being seen as a monster, finding identity, and society’s rules. She does this through vivid imagery, a first-person point of view, and rich symbols. Atwood’s control over tone and mood makes the story even more powerful and moving. Through this tale, Atwood pushes readers to rethink what’s normal and monstrous and offers deep thoughts on the human condition and society’s acceptance.

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