In "The Book Thief," written by Markus Zusak and published in 2005, the profound power of books
and words emerge as a potent force that shapes the lives of its characters and echoes through the
corridors of history. Set during the peak of World War II in Nazi Germany, the story follows Liesel
Meminger, a young girl who discovers the profound influence words wield in both the dark and
bright times. Through the use of connotative diction, figurative language, and narrative point of
view, Zusak illustrates how written and spoken words hold great power – they can inspire, heal and
help, but also harm, hurt and control.
Connotative diction is skilfully used in “The Book Thief” to express the impact of words based on
how they are used. For instance, when Frau Hermann informs Liesel that her family no longer needs
Rosa’s washing services, Liesel reacts with anger, choosing her words carefully to inflict emotional
pain. Zusak describes Liesel "spraying her words directly into the woman's eyes... The injury of
words. Yes, the brutality of words", showcasing the power that words can have in hurtinz people.
The choice of words like "spraying" and "brutality" implies an aggressive and forceful manner in
which Liesel delivers her words. It suggests that her verbal response is akin to an assault, inflicting
pain and discomfort on Frau Hermann. The word "injury" connotes harm and damage, emphasising
the idea that Liesel's words have wounded Frau Hermann emotionally. It highlights the deep impact
that words can have on an individual's feelings and self-esteem, even though no physical harm is
done. Through the use of connotative diction, Zusak effectively portrays the immense power that
words possess to cause pain and suffering, even without inflicting physical harm.
Figurative language, particularly the personification of words, plays a crucial role in demonstrating
the power of words in “The Book Thief”. The power of propaganda is depicted through the character
of Adolf Hitler's book, "Mein Kampf." It serves as a dangerous manifesto that manipulates minds and
encourages intolerance. The power of words is shown through Hitler's decision that he would "rule
the world with words... would never fire a gun... [and] will never have to", showing that Hitler
believes that he does not need brute force to control and manipulate people, as he instead
harnesses the power of words and propaganda to coerce the citizens of Germany into following the
Nazi ideology and hence resulting in World War II. As Liesel witnesses firsthand the devastating
consequences of hateful rhetoric, she understands the dichotomic quality of words, and their
capability to be both destructive and redemptive. The characterisation of words as something
powerful and to be feared also constructs the theme of words and their power. The book burning
scene exemplifies how those in power seek to suppress ideas and knowledge, fearing the potential
transformative effects of literature on society. The Nazis burned those books to keep people away
from those ideas, such as the book that Liesel steals that a jew could be a hero, [Can you please
reword this sentence – it’s a little confusing] because they could undermine the Nazi ideology and
therefore the party's control over Germany. By using figurative language through the personification
of words, Zusak explores the idea that words are very powerful, and can have a strong influence on
people.
The use of first-person point of view through the character of Death in the narration strengthens the
idea of the potency of words in “The Book Thief”. In Death's narration at the end of the story, Death
reflects on the profound impact of words, acknowledging their ability to evoke a wide range of
emotions and experience. In the end, Death claims Liesel's story as their own, reinforcing the idea
that words have the power to transcend time and ensure that those who are gone are not entirely
forgotten. Near the end of the book, Liesel states "I have hated words and I have loved them, and I
hope I have made them right." This quote reflects Liesel's realisation of the dual nature of words and
the responsibility that comes with using them. Her acknowledgment of the responsibility that comes
with using words aligns with the overall idea contained in the novel about the power of words and
their capability to be shaped to either cause harm or bring about positive change. Through the firstperson perspective of Death and Liesel's reflections , "The Book Thief" effectively explores the idea
that words wield significant influence and can leave a lasting impact on individuals and society.
Markus Zusak's "The Book Thief" effectively portrays the idea that words are powerful through a
combination of stylistic features. By personifying words and using figurative language, Zusak
personifies them as a character in the form of Adolf Hitler's book, "Mein Kampf," demonstrating the
immense influence of propaganda and the manipulation it can exert on people's minds. The firstperson point of view of Death provides a unique lens to observe human experiences and the
profound influence of words. Liesel's realisation of the dual nature of words reflects the
responsibility that comes with their use. Ultimately, the novel serves as a poignant reminder of the
significant role language plays in shaping destinies and leaving an indelible mark on the world.