Well, think about it. The second line is like the first step into the world of the novel after the initial hook. It can build suspense. Let's say in a thriller novel. The first line gets your attention, and the second line might say something like 'He had no idea that the small package on his doorstep would change his life forever.' It makes you want to keep reading to find out what's in the package. It also helps in establishing the narrative voice. If the first line gives a general sense, the second can show if the narrator is sarcastic, serious or humorous. In a satirical novel, the second line could be full of witty remarks that set the tone for the whole story.
The second lines contribute by providing more context. In a historical novel, it might give details about the time period like 'The air was thick with the smell of gunpowder, a remnant of the recent battle.' This helps the reader understand the backdrop. Moreover, it can introduce the conflict. If the first line sets the stage, the second can hint at the problem. In a love story, the second line could say 'But she knew their love was doomed from the start.' This foreshadows the challenges the couple will face.
They can start to establish the conflict. For instance, in '1984', the second line might start to introduce the oppressive atmosphere which is a major part of the overall conflict of the individual against the totalitarian state.
Well, in many novels, the plot line directly reflects the theme. For example, in 'Animal Farm' by George Orwell, the plot where the pigs gradually take over and become as corrupt as the humans they once rebelled against is a clear illustration of the theme of power corrupting. The plot developments show how the ideals of the revolution are betrayed.
Famous first lines often introduce key themes. Consider '1984' starting with 'It was a bright cold day in April, and the clocks were striking thirteen.' This odd time - keeping immediately hints at the dystopian world where things are not as they should be, introducing the theme of a disrupted and controlled society.
The last lines can seal the deal in terms of the overall impact. For example, if the last line is a cliffhanger, it might make the reader want to reread or think more deeply. In some cases, like in 'To Kill a Mockingbird', the last line 'He turned out the light and went into Jem's room. He would be there all night, and he would be there when Jem waked up in the morning.' gives a sense of Atticus's love and protection for Jem. It adds to the overall warmth and moral message of the book.
These lines also spread the Christmas cheer in a unique way. Lines from movies like 'Home Alone' such as 'Merry Christmas, ya filthy animal!' are catchy and fun. They are shared among friends and family, becoming part of the Christmas conversations and thus contributing to the overall festive atmosphere. Christmas stories' famous lines have a big impact on how we feel and experience the Christmas season.
Final lines can also leave an open - ended feeling. Consider the last line of 'The Catcher in the Rye' - 'Don't ever tell anybody anything. If you do, you start missing everybody.' It makes the reader wonder about the narrator's future and his growth. It adds a touch of mystery and ambiguity to the overall meaning. Moreover, final lines can be a kind of moral or message. Like in 'Animal Farm' where it says 'The creatures outside looked from pig to man, and from man to pig, and from pig to man again; but already it was impossible to say which was which.' This last line drives home the point about how power can corrupt and how the oppressed can become the oppressors, which is a central theme of the novel.
Famous dialogues can drive the plot forward. For example, in a mystery novel, a crucial dialogue might reveal a clue that leads the detective to solve the case. It's like a piece of the puzzle.
Famous lines often serve as a sort of mantra for the horror. In 'The Dark Tower' series, lines like 'The man in black fled across the desert, and the gunslinger followed.' This line not only sets the stage for an epic journey but also gives a sense of the unending pursuit and the desolate world in which the story takes place. It draws the reader in and makes them feel part of the journey and the danger.
The lines contribute a lot. For example, humorous lines like 'You'll shoot your eye out!' add a light - hearted and comical mood. It makes the story more enjoyable and family - friendly.
Famous prayers from novels contribute to the overall story by revealing the characters' innermost feelings. For instance, in 'The Brothers Karamazov' by Fyodor Dostoevsky, characters' prayers expose their moral and spiritual struggles. It helps readers understand their motives and the depth of their souls. This in turn enriches the plot as it shows the forces that drive the characters' actions.