Everything Is Illuminated

Style and Technique

Everything Is Illuminated by Jonathan Safran Foer is characterized by a complex structure that includes multiple parallel narratives. One is told from the perspective of the young American, Jonathan, who travels to Ukraine in search of the woman who saved his grandfather during the Holocaust. The second narrative is from the perspective of his guide, the Ukrainian Alex, whose letters to Jonathan and his own reflections add a unique flavor to the book. Foer employs numerous literary techniques, such as magical realism, intertextuality, and linguistic play. The language of the book is rich with metaphors, allegories, and symbolism, allowing for a deeper exploration of themes of memory, identity, and historical trauma. Foer's style is marked by a blend of humor and tragedy, creating a unique atmosphere and emotional depth in the work.