Levels of Life

Style and Technique

Julian Barnes' «Levels of Life» is a unique blend of essay and personal reflection, making it genre-defying. The structure of the work consists of three parts, each exploring different aspects of human experience and emotions related to height, flight, and loss. Barnes uses the metaphor of flight as a symbol of elevated feelings and experiences, as well as the inevitable aspect of falling in life. The author's language is characterized by elegance and precision, skillfully combining philosophical reflections with personal experiences to create a deep emotional resonance. Literary techniques include the use of metaphors, symbolism, and allusions, allowing the reader to delve deeper into the essence of the described events and emotions. Barnes also employs the technique of parallel storytelling, linking historical events with personal history, which enhances the reading experience and makes the book multilayered and profound.