When I look at the first third of Tracy Chevalier’s The Girl with a Pearl Earring, I see a masterclass in carefully crafting historical fiction. As a writer, it’s impossible not to appreciate Chevalier’s deliberate choices in setting, characterization, and narrative voice, all of which contribute to the novel’s immersive quality and ability to transport readers to 17th-century Delft.
Setting as a Living Character
From the first pages, Chevalier’s attention to the setting is striking. Delft isn’t just a backdrop; it’s a character in its own right. The cobblestone streets, the markets, and the somber interiors of the Vermeer household are described with such detail that they feel alive. The artist’s studio, particularly, stands out to me as a writer. The way Chevalier uses the dim lighting, the arrangement of objects, and the quiet, almost sacred atmosphere creates a setting that mirrors Griet’s internal world—full of secrets, tension, and a sense of being trapped.
This focus on the setting early in the novel is a deliberate choice. By immersing readers in this world, Chevalier lays the groundwork for the characters’ struggles and desires to feel real and immediate. It’s a reminder that in historical fiction, the world-building must be so vivid and tangible that it not only grounds the story but also shapes it.
Characterization Through Subtlety and Restraint
Chevalier’s approach to characterization in the first third of the novel is a lesson in subtlety. Griet, the protagonist, is a young woman of few words but rich inner thoughts. Chevalier allows us into Griet’s mind, revealing her intelligence and sensitivity through her observations and inner monologue. As a writer, I admire the restraint here—dialogue is sparse, and much is left unsaid, which only adds to the tension. Griet’s conflicts—between duty and desire, family and self—are powerful because they’re so quietly portrayed.
Then there’s Vermeer, who remains distant and enigmatic. His presence is felt more through his art and the reactions of those around him than through direct interactions with Griet. This distance is a conscious choice by Chevalier, creating an air of mystery that makes their eventual connection more complex and intriguing.
For a writer, this subtle characterization is a reminder of the power of restraint. By showing rather than telling, by leaving things unsaid, Chevalier creates characters that feel real and layered, inviting readers to fill in the gaps and engage more deeply with the story.
The Power of Perspective
The choice of a first-person narrative, closely aligned with Griet’s perspective, is another deliberate craft decision that I find particularly effective. This narrative voice pulls the reader directly into Griet’s world, making her experiences and emotions feel immediate and personal. Chevalier’s use of this perspective also reflects Griet’s limited understanding of the world around her—she’s a young, lower-class woman in a society where her knowledge and power are constrained.
As a writer, I see the brilliance in this choice. By aligning the narrative voice so closely with Griet’s perspective, Chevalier not only heightens the emotional impact of the story but also creates a sense of suspense. The reader, like Griet, must piece together the intentions and desires of the other characters, which adds layers of complexity to the narrative.
Why it Matters
In the first third of The Girl with a Pearl Earring, Chevalier’s craft choices—the attention to setting, the subtle characterization, and the use of a first-person narrative—are not just about creating a believable historical world. They’re about crafting a story that resonates on multiple levels. By immersing the reader in 17th-century Delft, the past feels alive and relevant. By developing her characters with such care, she explores timeless themes of power, control, and identity. By choosing to tell the story from Griet’s perspective, she invites readers to see the world through her eyes, making her struggles and desires feel personal and relatable.
For writers, The Girl with a Pearl Earring offers valuable lessons in the art of storytelling. It’s a reminder that every element of craft, every choice we make, contributes to the overall impact of the narrative. Chevalier’s novel shows us that when these elements are used thoughtfully and deliberately, they can create a story that not only transports readers to another time and place but also resonates with them on a deeply emotional level.