Collective Voice: WE THE ANIMALS
Laura Spence-Ash examines Justin Torres’s novel We the Animals as a compelling example of fiction that uses the collective voice, particularly to capture the experience of three young brothers. The “we” voice begins powerfully, emphasizing their shared identity, desires, and physicality. She highlights a pivotal shift in the penultimate chapter, where the narration reflects on the boys from a more distant, almost observational tone, reinforcing their maturation and separation.