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Self-Discovery In The Alloy Of Law By Brandon Sanderson

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Imagine not having any purpose, or at least so far as you can see. This would be quite depressing, since everyone wants a purpose and a reason to go through trials. This theory is illustrated in the book, “The Alloy of Law”, by Brandon Sanderson. Sanderson uses third person point of view and diction to reveal how self-discovery brings happiness. One way Sanderson uses the omniscient third person point of view is to show this theme is by revealing certain characters thoughts. A quote on page 20 says, “Harmony, Wax thought with a smile, I love that woman.” Sanderson makes it obvious that this is a sincere thought, and the sincerity shows his happiness. Wax had found himself and what he loved, the woman Lessie and his job as a law keeper …show more content…

Sanderson used different types of words, depending on the person and what had recently happened to them. One of these quotes on page 132 was, “Oddly, he looked younger than he” (Wax) “had on their previous meetings.” This was shortly after Wax had returned to investigating crimes. As many people know, one factor of apparent age is if the person has a “spark” to them. This can also be characterized as how happy a person is on average. Since most people know this, they will immediately know what Sanderson is hinting at; that Wax was much happier and full of energy, caused by his resuming his loved profession. Another quote illustrating careful diction is found on page 195, “‘It’s not really very useful,’ she said, looking down. “When I saw Wayne use his Slider ability, I started to get self-conscious. You see, I’m a Pulser.” To sum up the details of the fictional terms, Sliders are able to condense time in an area, so that those outside go to a standstill while the user can move in the area in normal time. A Pulser can do the opposite in an area, slowing down time in an area, so while they are in the bubble time everywhere else passes quickly. Marasi, the one speaking, feels this is a useless ability, and by extension, feels a part of her is completely useless. She has not discovered or accepted at least part of herself, and this pulls her away from happiness. The final quote that will be shared on the topic of self-discovery is found on page 304, “‘A lowly bullet can end the life of the most powerful, most capable, most secure of all men.’ ‘Not me,’ Miles said. ‘Bullets are nothing to me’ ‘No,’ she replied. ‘You’ll be brought down by something more lowly’ ‘Which is?’ he asked, amused, voice growing closer. ‘Me,’ Marasi replied.” This is during the takedown of a kidnapper and robber, where Marasi used her Pulser ability to keep Miles in one

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