Damian Alas

Period 1
4/26/24

THE FAULT IN OUR STARS ANALYZATION

John Green's "The Fault in Our Stars" is laden with figurative language that enriches the
narrative and deepens its themes. Three examples stand out: the Shakespearean quote "the
fault in our stars," the metaphor of the "grenade," and the symbol of the "Literal Heart of Jesus."
Through these instances, Green not only captivates readers with his lyrical prose but also
invites them to ponder profound ideas about fate, mortality, and the human condition.

In Hazel Grace Lancaster's musings about the phrase "the fault in our stars," she reflects on its
Shakespearean origins and its implications for her own life. She ponders, "But, in fact, 'the fault,
dear Brutus, is not in our stars, but in ourselves.'" (Green, 11) This quote from Shakespeare's
"Julius Caesar" sets the stage for Hazel's exploration of fate versus agency, suggesting that our
destinies are not predetermined by celestial forces but shaped by our own actions.

Additionally, Hazel discusses the phrase with Augustus Waters, who adds his own
interpretation, saying, "We are the authors of our own destinies." (Green, 313) Here, Augustus's
perspective aligns with Hazel's, emphasizing the idea of personal responsibility and agency in
shaping one's fate. By incorporating this Shakespearean quote, Green infuses the novel with a
sense of literary depth and invites readers to contemplate the philosophical underpinnings of
their own lives.

The metaphor of the "grenade" serves as a powerful symbol of the destructive impact of illness
on Hazel's life. Describing her experience of living with cancer, Hazel remarks, "I'm like a
grenade, Mom. I'm a grenade and at some point I'm going to blow up and I would like to
minimize the casualties, okay?" (Green, 99) Here, Hazel vividly articulates the fear and
uncertainty that accompany her illness, likening herself to a weapon that could harm those
around her.

Furthermore, Augustus employs the same metaphor when discussing his own terminal
diagnosis, stating, "I'm a grenade and at some point I'm going to blow up and I would like to
minimize the casualties." (Green, 260) By using the metaphor of the "grenade" for both
protagonists, Green underscores the universal experience of living with illness and the shared
struggle to come to terms with mortality.

The symbol of the "Literal Heart of Jesus" appears in a novel within the novel that Hazel reads,
entitled "An Imperial Affliction." The book's protagonist, Anna, grapples with the loss of her
mother and finds solace in the belief that her mother's literal heart resides within her. Reflecting
on this concept, Hazel observes, "In a way, it was kind of reassuring, the idea that we all had
literal hearts of Jesus living in our literal hearts." (Green, 28) This symbol serves as a metaphor
for the ways in which individuals carry their loved ones with them, even after they are gone.

Moreover, the "Literal Heart of Jesus" symbolizes the search for meaning and connection in the
face of loss. Hazel discusses this with Augustus, noting, "It's a metaphor, see: You put the killing
thing right between your teeth, but you don't give it the power to do its killing." (Green, 20) Here,
Hazel grapples with the idea of finding meaning in suffering and reclaiming agency in the face of
mortality. By weaving this symbol throughout the narrative, Green explores themes of grief,
resilience, and the enduring power of love.

In conclusion, “The Fault in Our Stars," John Green masterfully employs figurative language to
illuminate the complexities of life, love, and mortality. Through the Shakespearean quote "the
fault in our stars," the metaphor of the "grenade," and the symbol of the "Literal Heart of Jesus,"
Green invites readers to contemplate profound questions about fate, agency, and the human
experience. These instances of figurative language not only enrich the narrative but also
deepen its themes, leaving a lasting impact on readers long after the final page.