Introduction
Most novels refer focusing on grand events and major changes, sweeping seemingly insignificant occurrences of what appears to be a mundane life under the rug. Richard Russo in his award-wining book, “Empire Falls,” takes a strikingly different approach, highlighting the importance of the mundane. By combining metaphors and similes to outline the nuances of seemingly simplistic characters and the plot developments, Russo conveys an essential message of hopelessness permeating every facet of life in a small American town.
Character
Representing the epitome of the mundane life, the characters in the novel convey the sense of hopelessness that the author outlines as the essential social issue. For example, in the conversation that Miles has with Jimmy, the very setting in which it occurs creates the presence of a threat and, therefore, emphasizes the idea of the characters being entrapped in their own lies without the opportunity to change them. For instance, Jimmy mentions the need to conform to the established norm even when it seems to be counterintuitive due to the unwillingness to accept change and challenge: “An attitude like yours leads to things” (Russo 295). Thus, the characters embody the sense of despair and hopelessness perfectly.
Plot
Likewise, the plot serves to represent the endeavor to escape the conundrum of mundane life, yet with very little effect. Specifically, the novel takes its characters through a series of events that are seemingly disjointed and are supposed to represent the unpredictability of life. For instance, in the passage where Miles and Jimmy discuss their lives, Jimmy finally referencing the titular concept of the empire falling as the metaphor for the challenges of the U.S. social and cultural setting, the conversation is introduced as the characters get out of their cars and are about to continue with their lives: “Miles put his hand on the door handle. ‘I’m sorry I upset you, Jimmy’” (Russo 294). Thus, Russo emphasizes the idea of disconnectedness between the characters as they fail to develop a rapport even in a familiar setting.
Literary Devices
The stylistic devices utilized in the novel are quite few and far between, yet the ones incorporated into the text serve their function impeccably. Namely, in Jimmy’s passionate speech about the relationships between people in his and Miles’ lives, Jimmy creates an important metaphor that represents the focal point of the novel, having been chosen as its title. Specifically, Jimmy equates the concept of a fallen empire to himself and his broken life: “Mr. Empire Falls? That’s me. Last one to leave, turn out the lights, right?” (Russo 294).
The specified metaphor represents the very essence of despair and loneliness that the author strives to capture in the novel. In turn, the sue of similes reinforces the specified impression, contributing to the idea that the characters experience a personal crisis and represent the epitome of loneliness: “They like it that they’re more like me than they are like you” (Russo 294). Although the comparison between the characters and the people around them could be seen as an uplifting attempt at searching for unity, it, in fact indicates that neither Jimmy nor his friend have anywhere to retreat in an effort to improve themselves and change their lives for the better. Therefore, the literary devices used in the novel exacerbate the sense of loneliness and despair.
Conclusion
By using metaphors and similes in tandem with the character design that incorporates charming simplicity and naiveté, Russo manages to render the unique and wistful nature of loneliness and hopelessness portrayed as inevitable and inescapable parts of living in a small American town. Allowing Russo to restore the atmosphere of a small rural U.S. town, the specified devices serve to speak an important social message to the reader, outlining the role of building a community and moving forward. Thus, the novel represents a slice of life narrative combined with a smart social commentary.