Diction

Diction is the writer's choice of words; the stylistic element that helps convey voice and tone. The narrator telling the story is Melinda; it is in her point of view. In the story, Melinda is about 13 or 14 years old. Her writing is not complex at all. The story/ writing is a form of a diary entry, and usually, diary entries are not complicated. Most words Melinda uses are not that difficult; she uses words like, untouchable, and argue. The story is told in first person narrative. On most of the pages, you would see Melinda using the "I" form. For example, on page 8, Melinda says, "I see a few friends-people I used to think were my friends-but they look away." This is also an example of how the writing is simple and doesn't use difficult words. Though, you notice that she is well-educated. Throughout the story, Melinda speaks about her feelings and tells the readers directly about what is happening, for example, Melinda would say "Heather has..." On page 42, Melinda says, "I just thought of a great theory that explains everything." That is an example of Melinda telling the readers exactly what happened. Melinda's writing changes throughout the entire story, some sentences are short, and some are long.

Discussion Questions:
1. What are two words you believe are difficult that are in the writing?
2. What is voice and tone?
3. What are your opinions on the choice of words the author uses?

Elizabeth