What risks are inherent in closing a story like "Seperating" by John Updike with a question such as "Why?" Can a story about a middle-class suburban family bear the weight of a question like that? What does the young boy mean by that question--and what does his father hear in it?
I don't know what the significance of Why is...the whole story confuses me so much
To understand the significance of the question "Why?" as the closing of the story "Seperating" by John Updike, we need to analyze the story itself. By doing so, we can gain a clearer understanding of the risks and implications of using this particular question as a conclusion.
The story "Seperating" revolves around a middle-class suburban family, focusing primarily on the father's decision to separate from his wife and the impact it has on their three children. The question "Why?" at the end of the story is posed by one of the young boys, likely in response to the news of the separation.
Closing a story with a question like "Why?" carries inherent risks. It leaves the reader wanting an answer, thereby creating a sense of open-endedness. This approach can be risky because it requires the reader to interpret and analyze the story's events, themes, and characters in order to arrive at their own conclusion.
In the context of a story about a middle-class suburban family, this question holds a significant weight. The question itself encapsulates the confusion and curiosity of the young boy, who is grappling with the sudden upheaval in his family dynamics. His question can be interpreted as a plea for understanding, a desire for an explanation that would make sense of the situation. It represents the emotional turmoil and the struggle to comprehend the decisions made by the adults around him.
The significance of the question "Why?" can also be explored from the father's perspective. When the father hears this question from his young son, he may interpret it as a challenge to his decision to separate from his wife. He may perceive it as a reflection of doubt or disbelief, causing him to question his own motives and the potential impact of his choices on his children.
Ultimately, the use of the question "Why?" as the conclusion of the story "Seperating" serves to provoke thought and generate different interpretations and perspectives from the readers. It invites them to reflect on the complexities of human relationships, the challenges of family dynamics, and the consequences of choices made.
To fully understand the significance of the question "Why?" and its impact on the story, it is advisable to read the story in its entirety, paying close attention to the characters' actions, emotions, and the larger themes explored by the author, John Updike. Analyzing the story's language, symbolism, and narrative structure can also provide deeper insights into the meaning and implications of this question within the context of the story.