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Raymond Carver Cathedral Analysis

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In this textual analysis, I will be discussing the connection between the protagonist, the unnamed narrator, and the major theme of Cathedral by Raymond Carver. The theme illustrates the perspective of an individual with vision versus an individual who suffers from blindness. Carver wants readers to understand the importance of getting to know an individual who is different from you first before passing judgment. With the help of alcohol and marijuana, the narrator’s close-minded, dissatisfied personality changes, developing an acquaintance with the blind man, Robert, and escaping into his world. The beginning of the story gives readers a glimpse into the narrator’s negative personality. His attempt to make a connection with his wife’s friend is an indication that his dismissiveness is the reason behind his inability to connect with just about anyone. The narrator took joy in telling the short story in his superficial, distasting tone of voice. …show more content…

His feelings towards Robert also stem from the close relationship his wife and Robert have. Sharing a moment where Robert touched his wife’s face and neck to sending each other audiotapes hindered underlying insecurity and perhaps, jealous in the narrator. One particular audiotape, which included Robert mentioning the narrator’s name, was never listened to again. The narrator showed the characteristics of a dissatisfied, yet self-conscious individual avoiding to listen to what Robert was going to say about him. He even goes beyond his character and makes biased remarks towards Robert and Beulah’s relationship, stating “what a pitiful life this woman must have led.” Because the narrator can only physically see his wife, he fails to see beyond the surface unlike Robert, who would ‘see’ his wife on a deeper level attuned to her

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