Socratic Dialogue in Ishmael

I find the use of socratic dialogue to be an interesting part of the novel Ishmael. It is a very unique writing style. It adds to the meaning of the text because it really helps show the teacher/student relationship between Ishmael and the narrator. It also allows the reader to take Ishmael seriously as a character, by adding to his air of wisdom. The use of a socratic style is almost an illusion within the text to help achieve the author's exigence. It is apparent that the author means to make a statement about sustainability and by using socratic dialogue it enhances the effect of his message by making him seem wise and worthy of listening to because our culture reveres Socrates in this way. The use of the dialogue also helps involve the reader by asking a great deal of question that the reader may reflect on while writing.