The narrator’s instructions to readers to draw the Widow Wadman contain a variety of dash lengths, varying from short to long, indicating different readings based on the dash itself. In chapter 38, the dashes between portions of the sentence vary in length. Indeed, this unconventional format sometimes makes it difficult to quote sections of the novel in type. The experience is utterly changed and the reader is left bereft of that peculiar connection.Īnother striking feature of Tristram Shandy is the playful system of hyphens, asterisks, dashes and squiggly lines scattered amongst the text.

Any online or other electronic version of Tristram Shandy disallows readers the chance to commit to this level of interaction. Any format other than paper negates this possibility. This call for reader interaction makes it necessary for readers to have the paper book in their hands so that they may fully engage with the story as the narrator intends. This invitation is given in a lighthearted and laughing manner, further putting readers in good humour as they navigate through their personal interpretation of the story. Readers are challenged to materialize their own mental image of the character.

The reader is invited to become actively involved with not only the story but the visualization of the story as well. ––– Sit down, Sir, paint her to your own mind ––– as like your mistress as you can ––– as unlike your wife as your conscience will let you – ’tis all one to me – please but your own fancy in it’ ‘To conceive this right – call for pen and ink – here’s paper ready to your hand. The reader is asked to draw his or her own visualization of the character the Widow Wadman. The most peculiar example of Sterne’s visuals combining with the text occurs in chapter 38 when the reader is encouraged to physically mark in the book. More than most novels, it is imperative that a reader has access to the physical book when reading Tristram Shandy in order to experience the story fully. Sterne masterfully employs visual tricks and cues throughout the novel to assist in both plot and character development. The visual aspect of The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman is equally as important as the words themselves. Laurence Sterne famously interweaves the story of Tristram Shandy with words and images.

The life and times of tristram shandy