Andrina: Style and Technique: First Person Narrative

Overview:

“Andrina” is one of George Mackay Brown’s most celebrated short stories, primarily told in the first-person narrative.
This stylistic choice allows readers a unique insight into the protagonist’s mind and experiences.

Understanding First Person Narrative:

First Person Narrative means the story is told from the viewpoint of one character, using ‘I’.
It places the reader directly into the protagonist’s experiences, opinions, thoughts, feelings, and perceptions.

Benefits of First Person Narrative in ‘Andrina’:

Engages the reader: The narrative style encourages readers to empathise with the protagonist, as they directly experience his outlooks and feelings.
Character development: Provides a deeper understanding of the protagonist through his own perspectives and thoughts, fostering a connection with the reader.
Suspense and mystery: In ‘Andrina’, the use of first-person narrative amplifies suspense and mystique, as the reader only knows as much as the protagonist.

Use of First Person Narrative in ‘Andrina’:

Expression of emotions: Personal emotions and feelings like love, fear, confusion, and regret are expressed directly and powerfully.
Presentation of reality: The protagonist’s view of reality is depicted as is, presenting his encounters with Andrina and his interpretation of her mysterious nature.
Reliability: The reliability of the protagonist’s narration is questioned, as his perception and knowledge are limited.

Quotes and Usage of First Person Narrative:

“I had a kind of terror of her, which I could never explain.” – Conveys the protagonist’s fear and confusion towards Andrina directly.
“A sudden tenderness for her overflowed my heart.” – Expresses the protagonist’s emotional depth towards Andrina’s character, developing emotional investment from the reader.

By studying the way Mackay Brown utilises the first-person narrative in ‘Andrina’, you can gain a deeper understanding of narrative techniques and character perspective.