“A Serious Talk” And “Neighbors” By R. Carver Analysis Critical Thinking Example

“A Serious Talk” by R. Carver covers the themes of separation, jealousy and identity crisis through the conflict development between protagonist Burt and his antagonist Vera with the help of limited narration, extensive symbolism, dramatic irony and absurd actions. The third-person point of view seems objective at first, but later clearly hints that the narration is limited to protagonist perspective, which shows how the main character is unable to let go of his wife. Moreover, it is seen in Burt’s attitude to Vera’s house, as if it is his own, and in his mention of multiple Vera’s betrayals. The conflict arises in a Christmas celebration setting, when Vera and kids clearly show Burt that he is not welcomed in their house by setting time he can spend with them, giving him impersonal presents and ignoring him while preparing dinner. I believe this conflict remains intense till the end of the story and is not fully resolved. Furthermore, the theme of separation is conveyed through images of the dropped pie, the broken bicycle without a wheel and ruined fireplace that are the symbols of Burt and Vera’s broken relationship and Burt’s broken identity. I believe it is jealously that leads to absurd actions of stealing pies and attempts to maintain control over Vera’s life. Therefore, it shows how separation has caused his identity crisis, as his actions contradict his words, as he tries to begin the serious talk, but he cannot do that, because of his uncertainty about himself. Instead, he objectifies his irrational urges in ironical and absurd actions, such as sawing the cord and taking the ashtray away in the resolution of the plot, as it gives him sense of control over Vera.
The short story “Neighbors” by R. Carver develops the themes of confused identity and the drive to live the other people’s lives with the help of objective narration, fact-driven tone and symbolism. First of all, the desire for unattainable is seen in the opening of the story, as the Millers claim to be happy, but envy their neighbors’ lifestyle. It may be explained by their class identity, as they want to live as their exemplary middle class neighbors, because the Millers are influenced by social and personal expectations of what good life is. I think that the chance to experience neighbors’ life confuses the identity of protagonist, as his absurd actions throughout the plot development aggravate from little thefts to attempts to experience Jim and Harriet’s identities with the help of their clothes. Arlene also experiences this confusion, when she forgets to feed the cat, and also explores the neighbors’ life behind the door. The experience in the Stones’ flat setting arouses Bill and Arlene, as it gives them the feel of the life and identity they do not have. I believe that Bill looks in the mirror trying to perceive his change, and it symbolizes his vulnerability, desperation and inaccessibility of irrational urges. However, the objective narrator and third person point of view attain impartial account of the conflict development, so it is open for reader’s interpretation. Nevertheless, it seems that Millers’ desire is slightly condemned, as the wish to have what the others have alludes to Biblical amendment. The theme of the story is clearly seen in the ironical resolution, as the door knob and lost keys may be interpreted as the symbolic barrier from unattained life. When Millers lose the access to the flat they are awaken and can see the absurdity of their actions and longings. I think that they finally are able to see how confused their desires are, and it will definitely help them to solve the problem in the future.