The Documentary purpose in Canadian Fiction

A diary can be classified as a useful genre to show our Canadian identity through geography and history. The story, The Afterlife of George Cartwright, by John Steffler exemplifies the tradition of the diary. Throughout this novel Steffler is able to state the geographics of the land through diaries of the explorer George Cartwright. He writes, “If he opens his window and leans out, what he sees is a starry, moonless sky, the dark outline of roofs and trees. The earth is completely black, completely still.” (Steffler, 61). In addition, Steffler also describes the history of George Cartwright when he writes, “In the spring of 1765 Cartwright moved to Scotland. He assumed he could live more cheaply there, do as he pleased, and enjoy an abundance of game in

its woods and streams.” (Steffler, 83). Hence the diary is a useful tool used by authors as a documentary purpose.

Some topics in this essay:
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