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
I haven't read this story but from what I've read about it, it concerns a breakup of a marriage. The boy's question "Why?" is a logical question about why his family life is being disrupted.
where have you heard this from? and are there any sites that would help me answer my question?
Understanding the significance of a closing question like "Why?" in a story requires careful analysis and interpretation. Let me guide you through the process of analyzing "Seperating" by John Updike and help you make sense of it.
1. Start by summarizing the story: "Seperating" is a story about a middle-class suburban family going through a process of separation. The focus is on the young boy, who asks his father the question "Why?" at the end of the story.
2. Analyze the risks of closing with a question: Using a closing question like "Why?" can leave the reader with unresolved curiosity, open-ended interpretations, and contemplation. It can be risky because it requires the reader to reflect on the story's themes, characters, and overall meaning.
3. Examine the significance of the question: In the context of the story, when the young boy asks, "Why?" he might be seeking an explanation for the separation happening within his family. This question reflects his confusion and desire to comprehend the changes taking place.
4. Consider the father's interpretation: The father's response to the question might vary depending on his perception. The open-ended nature of the question can trigger introspection in the father, making him reflect on his choices, responsibilities, and the impact of the separation on his child.
Remember, interpreting literature is subjective, and different readers may have varying interpretations. However, by analyzing the story's themes, characters, and context, you can develop your understanding of the significance of the closing question in "Seperating" and the possible meanings behind it.