Setting, plot structure and narrative point of view in J.S. Shole's short story collection Ofoo, ke fano!

Abstract

This study evaluates Shole's short stories in respect of setting, plo t structure and narrative point of view. It assesses how Shole manipulates these three aspects in the process of creating his narrative an. In analysing setting, attention is paid not only to the geographical position and time of the events, but also on the relationship between the place and the characters, as well as to the functionality of setting. The structure of the stories is evaluated according to the three phases, namely, exposition, developme nt and resolution. T he " focus is on whether these stories show the essentials of each of the three phases. The study also discusses how Shole uses flashback and foreshadowing to promote suspense and the interrelatedness of events. It examines how Shole manipulates the first person point of view to create a sense of involvement and closeness in the characters of the stories. It also discusses the author's utilisation of the third person omniscient point of view and dramatic point of view, and how the author probes the inner thoughts of the characters. The weaknesses of the author in using these points of view are also highlighted.