Lessing, Doris: 1919 - 2013

Mara and Dann, 1999 - Language/Style

  • English Language Level: Medium
    • Vocabulary – The book uses some unusual or slightly archaic words, but most are understandable in context.

      Sentence Structures – Lessing often writes long, descriptive sentences. They require careful reading but aren’t overly complex grammatically.

      Themes & Ideas – The story explores human survival, society, and morality. These ideas are thoughtful but not abstractly philosophical, so comprehension is achievable for upper-intermediate readers.

      Narrative Style – The narration is clear and linear. There are few confusing shifts in time or perspective.

  • The novel uses descriptive language and complex sentences but is generally accessible to readers with an upper-intermediate level of English.