Syntax

In The Godfather the author, Mario Puzo, uses a variety of sentence structure to

convey his style. The author’s style, like previously mentioned, is serious, bland and

almost blunt. Puzo’s use of short and choppy sentences help to convey a blunt style.

            For example when the author is describing a moment between Johnny and Tom

Hagen he says, “Hagen never made any excuses for his actions. He could not” (167). The

short sentences prove that the author is being blunt. He speaks from a third person point

of view and this shows his non-bias and serious tone and style.

            Syntax in this novel not only show the author’s style but also show the author’s

violent tone. When Paulie Gatto and two “big men” are called upon by the godfather to

do a job (beating Kevin Moonan and Wagner). This brutal scene is described as “beating

Moonan to jelly…each blow landed with a splat of flesh splitting open” (65).  This use of

imagery not only helps the reader picture the beating but also this is an example of

sentence structure, syntax, helping to prove the authors violent tone. 

            Profanity and vulgarity is also used in this novel to help the author create a violent

tone. When Michael and Sonny start to bicker about how Michael wanted to hurt the cops

who verbally assaulted him Sonny begins to laugh at him. Sonny thinks that Michael is

being ridiculous and childish. Michael says, “Don’t you think I can do it, you son of a

b****” (134). This author’s choice to incorporate profanity into the sentences of the

novel depict the vulgar and violent tone of the book.