The Thief of Always - Motifs

The Thief of Always – Clive Barker

Motifs (a motif is a recurring or repeated object, image, or idea in a story):

Questions: Rictus says “No questions boy…questions rot the mind.” Questions (pg. 6, 8, etc.) are a recurring motif in the novel. Try to notice as many “questions” or “question-like” items or events in the book. Remember that this book is a mystery. Without questioning, one can never find the answer to a mystery. What might the author be trying to tell us as people?

Personification: Giving inanimate or non-living objects human qualities. Barker uses the poetic technique of personification throughout the book. As you read, try to notice when he uses it. Consider why he might want to describe inanimate objects with living traits.

Similes: A comparison between two things using the words “like” or “as”. Similes are used like adjectives, to describe an abstract idea in a more concrete or solid way. Keep a record of the number of times Barker uses similes in his novel. Why does he use so much comparison?

Time: Follow references to time throughout the novel. Notice when characters talk about time. How might all this talk about time create a lesson or meaning for us as readers?

Names: many of the names in this book hold clues as to their true nature or significance. What might the names: Rictus, Carna, Millsap (the town), Griffin, Swick, Mr. Hood, Jive, Marr mean?

Animals: Look for the types of animals mentioned or met in the novel. What might be the connection between them?

Transformation: A character that changes in a story is called “dynamic”. What kinds of changes occur to Harvey and the other characters in the book? Are these all physical or mental changes? Why is change important as a theme, do you think?