Language And More Than Language-Patrick White’s Art Of Writing In The Tree Of Man

Patrick White is regarded as one of the most famous writers in Australian literature. The Tree of Man, published in 1955, has gained the fame for Patrick White all over the world. By now, however, most of the studies on the book focus on the religion, philosophy, relations with nature, characterization, writing style, theme, symbolism and the like. Attempting to find a new angle, this thesis tries to probe into the art of writing of this book in the hope of helping the reader to see the true value of the work, to better understand the theme of the novel and appreciate the author’s talent in writing.The thesis tries to explore this art from four aspects: its original, creative language, the ingenious use of symbolism, frequent recourse to the modernist-prone interior monologue and a consistent sarcastic presentation. Patrick White’s language is entirely his own, which is most clearly exhibited in the originality and unconventionality in the use of language and a special penchant for the use of the figure of speech zeugma. Symbolism, with its incomparable capability and potential for richer and deeper significance in literary works, seems to fall into the author’s liking too. Interior monologue is a distinctive modernist writing technique, and as a noted modernist, White obviously demonstrates a passion for that, which is everywhere and is skillfully mixed with the narration. Personally as a cultural critic and a public figure in certain matters, White is known for his acid tongue. This trait is vividly seen in his writing as exhibited in his sarcastic and ironic presentation of those objectionable characters and events in the book. The use of sarcasm and innuendo in his writing can be regarded as an important weapon the author uses in his attack on social vices in reality.So far as the author of the thesis can see, White’s art of writing is the most notable feature of his works, particularly in this book. A close study of it can not only deepen our understanding of his works but also appreciate him as an unparalleled Australian writer.