We were discussing frame & embedded narratives today with reference to Spies. Here is a definition of both terms here.
A framing narrative contains a second narrative, or embedded narrative, in order to provide a context or setting for it. Sometimes this framing narrative will begin and end the narrative as a whole, providing book ends, while other times the framing narrative will simply be present in the beginning of the narrative. The framing narrative "sets the scene" for the embedded narrative, giving us a context in which we can read and interpret the text.
So in chapter 1 and chapter 11 the narrative voice is that of the older Stephen Wheatley looking back to the events of the summer of 1942.
Although there is a gradual transition of the narrator from older Stephen to younger Stephen, these frame narrative chapters are dominated by the older Stephen.
The embedded narrative - dominated by the younger Stephen - covers chapters 2 - 10.
I hope this clarifies the two terms.
David
