The Waves

How does the structure of Section 5 parallel the development of the characters?

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The structure in Section 5 is notable because it features only three of the six possible narrators. It also begins with Neville rather than Bernard. In terms of content, this is important because it signifies that Rhoda and Neville, while they have similar emotions concerning the death of Percival, have become entirely detached from Bernard and his personality. This is a relevant realization because with such a fragmentation the six voices no longer function as one. Bernard appears nearly frustrated at the realization that Percival's death has such a damning effect on Rhoda and Neville, and then we are left to imagine how Louis, Susan, and Jinny feel. Section 5 presents the group at its most fragmented.