Travels with Charley: In Search of America

Style and Technique

In «Travels with Charley: In Search of America», John Steinbeck employs a style that combines elements of autobiographical narrative and documentary essay. The language of the work is characterized by simplicity and clarity, allowing readers to easily immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the journey. Steinbeck skillfully conveys his observations and reflections on the people and places he encounters along the way. Literary techniques such as dialogues and descriptions help create a vivid picture of American life in the 1960s. The narrative structure is built like a travel diary, with each chapter dedicated to a different stage of the trip. The author uses metaphors and symbols to emphasize his thoughts on cultural and social changes in the country. An important feature is the presence of Charley, Steinbeck's poodle, who serves not only as a companion but also as a catalyst for reflections and encounters with people. The book combines the author's personal experiences with a broad panorama of American life, making it a unique work in the travel literature genre.