On behalf of my A2 English Literature class, i would like to put forward a question about the Editor's letter in part three of Atonement.
The reference to the changing of the name 'Piazza' from "Navona" to "Barberini" suggests that the version of Atonement we are reading has been changed by Briony due to the criticism by the Editor. If this is so then surely the suggestion of ' Briony coming between Robbie and Cecilia in a "disastrous fashion" ' has been taken on board by the retrospective author. This then compells the reader to believe that anything following the fountain scene is merely a fabricated drama that Briony has conducted in order to make it 'publishable'?
Doesn't this deter the whole didactic function of the novel (for Briony to Atone for her sin) presented through the most of parts one, two and three? Or is it simply more recognition that Briony's actions as a ten year old had huge repercussions therefore making her atonement even more imperative?
Also in the following chapter, immediately after the letter, when Briony refers to this suggestion, should the reader interpret her reply "Yes indeed" as a hint to her further redraft she would then go on to do, or a surprised acknowledgement of the event that actually did occur?
This concept could potentially change our entire view of the novel's self-aware structure so it would be great to have some views on this subject.
