The mind lies : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Creative Writing (MCW)

Abstract

This thesis is comprised of a critical essay that examines the effects of literary techniques in driving a moral dilemma in two Jodi Picoult novels with a common motherhood theme. I will look at how point of view changes, the use of vignettes for back story, and the overall structure affect the moral dilemma and are related to the overall themes and plot in each novel. The creative part of this thesis is an extract from a novel that explores a moral dilemma around a mother’s body when pregnant, mental illness in mothers, and the pressures mothers experience to make to keep themselves, their families and their work obligations satisfied.