Couples

Style and Technique

John Updike's novel «Couples» is distinguished by its detailed and realistic portrayal of the everyday life of the American middle class in the 1960s. Updike's style is characterized by rich and expressive language that allows for a deep dive into the inner world of the characters. The author uses complex metaphors and symbolism to emphasize themes of sexuality, marriage, and infidelity. Literary techniques such as stream of consciousness and shifting perspectives help reveal the characters' internal experiences and relationships. The novel's structure is nonlinear, with frequent flashbacks and changes in viewpoint, creating a multilayered narrative that allows the reader to see events from different angles. Updike masterfully conveys the atmosphere of the time and place, using detailed descriptions and dialogues that reflect the social and cultural aspects of the era.