Literary Devices
Visually Descriptive
Imagery
"But try to be a filter, not a sponge"
Bill
The main protaganist of the story
Charlie
A symbol or representation of Charlie's place in social and familial circles.
A Wallflower
The notion that some people's idea of “manliness” perpetuates domination, homophobia, and aggression
Toxic Masculinity
a comparison between two things that are otherwise unrelated
Metaphor
"Oooo big words"
Charlie's Sister
Talks about all of the great things they exposed Charlie to
Mary Elizabeth
The first time Charlie gains acceptance
Bob's Party
The events that scar one's upbringing.
Trauma
Warning or indication of something happening in the future
Foreshadowing
"Well this is awkward"
Patrick
Goes by "nothing"
Patrick
Mirrors Charlie's experiences to guide him through his traumas.
Bill's Books
A harmful cycle that is passed down through the family.
Generational Trauma
A story told through a series of letters
Epistolary Narration
"Do you think those people are nice?"
Michael
Described as being beautiful in old photographs
Charlie's mom
Assists Charlie with coping with his traumas
The Letters
A person’s condition with regard to their psychological and emotional well-being.
Mental Health
Used to express large, complex ideas in an approachable manner
Allegory
"I just wish I could have sent them... I always wanted to send them"
Charlie's Grandfather
Likes to drink wine and take photographs
Craig
Re-birth and transformation from beginning to the end of the story.
The Tunnel
The ideas based on which we are "supposed" to live by.
Social Norms