Final answer:
The descriptive language used in the line about Caleb hobbling and avoiding eye contact with his sister enables readers to infer his physical and emotional state, suggesting motives such as discomfort or shyness. This deepens our understanding of Caleb's character.
Step-by-step explanation:
The author's use of description in the passage about Caleb from “The King of Milton, Ohio” reveals significant traits about the character's personality and hints at his internal state. The line “He hobbled into the kitchen for breakfast, barely making eye contact with his sister, who was home from college for the summer” employs a narrative technique that not only describes Caleb's physical condition (“hobbled”) suggesting a possible injury or disability but also his social disposition or mood by referencing the lack of eye contact with his sister. This descriptive approach allows readers to infer Caleb's motives and emotions, which could include feelings of discomfort, shyness, or even estrangement. Interpreting these nuances, the reader gains a deeper understanding of Caleb's character beyond the literal actions depicted.
Identifying that the character is “hobbled” already adds a layer of complexity to his daily routine and interactions. The avoidance of eye contact could indicate a level of introspection or reluctance to engage, further compounding Caleb's characterization as someone dealing with challenges, both physically and socially.