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.
Famous first lines often set the mood. For example, the first line of 'The Great Gatsby' - 'In my younger and more vulnerable years my father gave me some advice that I've been turning over in my mind ever since.' It gives a sense of reflection and sets a somewhat nostalgic mood. This mood stays throughout the novel as Nick Carraway looks back on the events of that summer.
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.
In some novels, the ending line can be a twist that completely changes how we view the whole story. Consider 'The Sixth Sense' which is based on a novel. The ending line reveals the truth that the main character has been dead all along. This kind of ending line forces the reader to re - evaluate everything they've read before and adds a whole new layer of meaning to the story.
They often sum up the main themes. For example, the last line in '1984' - 'He loved Big Brother.' It drives home the complete subjugation of the individual in the totalitarian society the book depicts. Just a short line but it has a huge impact on the reader's understanding of the horror of that world.
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.
The famous lines help set the mood. For example, 'Fifteen men on the dead man's chest - Yo - ho - ho, and a bottle of rum!' immediately gives a pirate - like, rowdy and adventurous mood. It makes the reader feel like they are in the middle of a pirate crew.
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.
The lines about the humble birth, such as '...laid him in a manger...' also play a role. They show that Jesus came into the world in a simple and unassuming way. This humility is an important part of the Christmas message, teaching us values like simplicity and the ability to find beauty and significance in the ordinary. It also shows that the most important things can start from the most unpretentious beginnings.