Mary Allen
Introduction: Exploring the Setting of "Love That Dog"
As readers, we often overlook the importance of setting in a story. However, the setting can play a crucial role in shaping the plot, characters, and even the mood of a book. In the case of "Love That Dog" by Sharon Creech, the setting is a vital element of the novel. This article will explore the time period, geographic location, physical environment, cultural and historical context, and the role of the setting in the story.
The Time Period of the Story
"Love That Dog" takes place in the late 1990s, which is evident through Jack’s use of a floppy disk to write his poetry. Additionally, Jack mentions several contemporary poets, including William Carlos Williams and Walter Dean Myers, which further establishes the time period. The late 1990s were a time of change and advancement, particularly in technology and communication, which is reflected in Jack’s use of the internet to research his favorite poets.
However, the time period is not a central aspect of the story. Instead, it serves as a backdrop to Jack’s journey of self-discovery and his love for poetry. The story could have taken place in any time period, but the late 1990s setting adds a layer of authenticity to Jack’s experiences.
The Geographic Location of the Setting
"Love That Dog" takes place in a small town in the United States. The exact location is not specified, but there are several hints that suggest it is in a rural area. For example, Jack mentions a farm next to his school, and he describes the landscape as flat and full of fields. Additionally, the town is small enough that everyone seems to know each other, which is a common characteristic of rural areas.
The rural setting serves as a contrast to the urban environment often associated with poetry. Jack feels like an outsider because of his love for poetry, and the rural setting reinforces this feeling of isolation. However, it also allows Jack to connect with nature and find inspiration for his poetry.
The Physical Environment of the Setting
The physical environment of the setting is closely tied to the geographic location. Jack describes the landscape as flat and full of fields, with a farm next to his school. Additionally, there are several references to trees, flowers, and other elements of nature.
The physical environment serves as a source of inspiration for Jack’s poetry. He frequently incorporates nature into his poems, such as when he writes about a butterfly or a tree. Additionally, the physical environment reinforces the feeling of isolation that Jack experiences. The flat, empty landscape serves as a metaphor for Jack’s emotional state, which is empty and lacking in inspiration until he discovers a love for poetry.
The Cultural and Historical Context of the Setting
The cultural and historical context of the setting is not a central aspect of the story. However, there are a few references to historical events, such as when Jack writes a poem about the September 11 attacks. Additionally, there are several references to contemporary poets, which reflects the cultural context of the late 1990s.
The cultural and historical context serves to ground the story in reality and add a layer of authenticity. It also allows the reader to connect with the story on a deeper level by referencing real-world events and people.
The Importance of the Setting to the Story
The setting is vital to the story of "Love That Dog." It serves as a backdrop to Jack’s journey of self-discovery and his love for poetry. The rural setting reinforces the feeling of isolation that Jack experiences, while the physical environment provides inspiration for his poetry. Additionally, the cultural and historical context adds a layer of authenticity and allows the reader to connect with the story on a deeper level.
The Role of the Setting in Character Development
The setting plays a significant role in Jack’s character development. The feeling of isolation that he experiences is reinforced by the rural setting, which leads him to turn inward and explore his emotions through poetry. Additionally, the physical environment provides inspiration for his poetry and allows him to connect with nature. Through his love for poetry and his connection to nature, Jack is able to develop a deeper understanding of himself.
The Relationship Between the Setting and the Plot
The setting is closely tied to the plot of "Love That Dog." Jack’s journey of self-discovery and his love for poetry are both influenced by the rural setting and the physical environment. Additionally, the cultural and historical context adds a layer of authenticity to the story and helps to ground it in reality.
The Mood and Atmosphere Created by the Setting
The setting creates a mood of isolation and introspection. The rural landscape reinforces Jack’s feeling of isolation, while the physical environment provides inspiration for his poetry. However, there is also a sense of wonder and beauty in the setting, particularly when Jack writes about nature in his poetry.
The Use of Imagery to Portray the Setting
Sharon Creech uses vivid imagery to portray the setting in "Love That Dog." From the flat, empty landscape to the fields and farm, the reader is transported to a rural town in the late 1990s. Additionally, the use of imagery to describe nature adds a layer of beauty and wonder to the setting.
Comparing the Setting to Other Works of Literature
The rural setting of "Love That Dog" is reminiscent of other works of literature, such as "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee and "Of Mice and Men" by John Steinbeck. These works also take place in rural areas and explore themes of isolation and self-discovery.
Conclusion: Significance of the Setting in "Love That Dog"
The setting is a crucial element of "Love That Dog." It serves as a backdrop to Jack’s journey of self-discovery and his love for poetry. The rural setting reinforces his feeling of isolation, while the physical environment provides inspiration for his poetry. Additionally, the cultural and historical context adds a layer of authenticity to the story and helps to ground it in reality. Overall, the setting plays a vital role in shaping the plot, characters, and mood of "Love That Dog."