David Guterson’s novel, Snow Falling on Cedars, opens with a scene depicting the trial of Kabuo Miyamoto, a Japanese American fisherman accused of murder on a small island in Puget Sound. The author deliberately drops the reader into an unfamiliar world and slowly familiarizes them with the surroundings through descriptive imagery and careful word choice. In these opening paragraphs, Guterson characterizes Miyamoto in a way that sets him apart from both the courtroom and the natural world outside, creating a stark contrast that highlights the complexities of his character and the setting in which the story unfolds. Inside the courtroom, Miyamoto is described as a stoic figure, impassive and almost detached from the proceedings unfolding around him. Guterson uses vivid imagery to convey Miyamoto’s demeanor, stating that he “sat at the defendant’s table like a statue.” This comparison to a statue suggests a sense of immovability and permanence, hinting at the strength and resilience that Miyamoto possesses in the face of adversity. The author’s choice of words such as “stoically” and “wordlessly” further emphasize Miyamoto’s calm and composed nature, highlighting his ability to maintain his composure despite the gravity of the situation. …show more content…
Guterson’s descriptive language paints a vivid picture of the courtroom atmosphere, with phrases such as “the old courtroom was strained with emotion” and “the air was heavy with uncertainty” evoking a sense of unease and foreboding. By juxtaposing Miyamoto’s composure with the charged atmosphere of the courtroom, the author highlights the stark contrast between the accused and his surroundings, setting the stage for the unfolding drama of the