Understanding Second-Person Point of View in Fiction

Author

Anastasia L. Hawke, Utah State University

Date of Award

5-2015

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

English

Committee Chair(s)

Charles Waugh

Committee

Charles Waugh

Committee

Benjamin Gunsberg

Committee

Christine Cooper-Rompato

Abstract

This thesis consists of a critical introduction followed by a short story and reflection. The critical introduction introduces and analyzes second-person point of view. The first section establishes a working definition for second-person narrative and maps out its unique relationship between narrator, protagonist, and reader. The second section explores the way second-person point of view is taught. The third and last section of the critical introduction focuses on the effects second-person point of view has on fiction narratives.

The short fiction “Pregnancy and Other Dysfunctions” following the critical introduction demonstrates a narrative effectively using second-person point of view. It follows the experience of a disillusioned thirty-year-old woman in her attempt to control her situation and make herself a family. The second-person point of view illustrates how control is an illusion, and only once she loses control and gives up her expectations does she find happiness. Then I reflect on the successes and challenges of writing a story in the second-person point of view.

Recommended Citation

Hawke, Anastasia L., "Understanding Second-Person Point of View in Fiction" (2015). All Graduate Plan B and other Reports, Spring 1920 to Spring 2023. 465.
https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/gradreports/465