The Purpose of Cry The Beloved Countries Writing Style

This novel has a writing style like none other I have read before. Instead of quotes people talking is signified by little dashes. This style causes me to read much more closely and pay much more attention while reading. I sometimes get lost on who is speaking and who is narrating because there is no closure or definite end marks to the dialogue. I think the author wrote this novel in this style because they are trying to represent the atmosphere and culture that Kumalo and fellow Zulu's live in. Most of Zulu history was spoken word and not recorded in paper but passed from generation to generation. If this book was read out loud with different tones for each characters it would be much easier for the audience to follow along. In conclusion the purpose of the writing style is to show the culture of the native south africans.