The excerpt that I chose to write this IRJE about is from the book, Throne of Glass, by Sarah J. Maas. This is not the current independent book I am reading, but rather a recent read that deeply impacted me. The following quote portrays the characters’ emotions in a deep and meaningful way. The protagonist is discussing the importance of music and the emotions she feels when she plays the piano.
“I like music,” she said slowly, “because when I hear it, I . . . I lose myself within myself, if that makes any sense. I become empty and full all at once, and I can feel the whole earth roiling around me. When I play. I’m not . . . for once, I’m not destroying, I’m creating.”
The way that Maas uses descriptive words within the sentence enhances the meaning and allows the reader to understand and empathize with the character. Furthermore, the sharp juxtaposition between the protagonist’s ferocity throughout the majority of the book to this scene, where we see a deeper, softer, layer of her characterization was very impactful to the story. As a piano player myself, I felt this quote deeply. Musique is a form of self-expression that I value, and seeing this reflected in a character made me feel recognized and also allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the protagonists’ thoughts.
Meghan, you did a fantastic job putting together this piece of art using an excellent quote from the book, Throne of Glass. this quote opened my imagination and portrayed the book beatifully.