The Curious Incident...: Writer's Techniques

The Curious Incident…: Writer’s Techniques

“The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time”: Writer’s Techniques

Perspective

  • The novel is narrated from the first-person perspective of Christopher Boone, a teenager with a condition similar to Asperger’s syndrome. This gives readers a direct and intimate insight into Christopher’s thought processes, feelings, and world view.

  • Haddon uses autistic voice and perspective to show Christopher’s observation of minute details, reliance on logic and struggle in understanding emotions. This perspective can sometimes be a challenging read but it effectively represents Christopher’s unique frame of reference.

Structure and Layout

  • Mathematical patterns govern the novel’s structure, reflecting Christopher’s love for and reliance on mathematics. The chapters are numbered as prime numbers, demonstrating the character’s obsession with logical order.

  • Haddon also incorporates diagrams and charts into the book. These graphics not just visually demonstrate Christopher’s thought processes but also break up the text, making the narrative visually appealing and less intimidating for the reader.

Language and Style

  • Haddon’s use of simple, direct and factual language echoes Christopher’s personality and his preference for truth and straightforwardness.

  • Haddon also skilfully introduces who decided sounds, which indicate Christopher’s hypersensitivity to certain noises - a common trait in people with autism. This technique assists readers to understand his sensory experiences.

  • The absence of emotional language and metaphors is another distinct feature of the book, reflecting Christopher’s struggles with understanding and describing emotions and his literal take on language.

Symbolism

  • The titular dead dog symbolises the deception and broken relationships within Christopher’s family.

  • The Swiss Army Knife Christopher carries, represents his need for control and security in a complex and often overwhelming world.

  • Space and stars used frequently as imagery and symbols, representing Christopher’s desire for order and clarity. It also shows his escape mechanism - imagining himself as an astronaut, away from Earth and its confusion.