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The Theme Of The Swimmer

1133 Words5 Pages

Short Story Essay the Theme of
“The Swimmer” by John Cheever
Written by Natalie Black

There are many important literary elements writers use to create a story. These elements are what give life to each story they provide a balance foundation to each story. The following are types of literary elements: plot, setting, narrative, character, theme, etc. Each one of these elements help to build a story from the ground up to assist in the creation of each story. Without the use of these building blocks a writer’s work will crumble in a sense. One important building block for writers in the theme, the theme provides the link between the story and the audience. It is what writers use to attract their audience this theme can …show more content…

Throughout Neddy’s journey from house to house a pool to pool Cheever incorporates more themes into his story such as time throughout Neddy’s journey he begins with a warm summer day however over time Neddy notices a change in trees as if there is a change in seasons. This theme of time resonates with readers as the main character Neddy begins to notice the changes in the weather, he begins to feel weaker as if he is getting older or aging during his mission to swim home. Readers can associate with this theme as we’re all growing and aging overtime and every year we make a list of things to accomplish but most of the time that list goes unaccomplished. Through his journey home Neddy notices the changes in trees, as well as the smell in the air he to begins to notice changes within himself and begins to cry. Cheever used the theme of time as a concept of change he used it to show how life around this middle aged man has changed rapidly yet Neddy himself either has not yet accepted the change or refuses to accept it. This theme is interwoven throughout the entire story as in the beginning of the story he is married and “his 4 beautiful daughters are at home in his big house” were as at the end of the story his house is boarded up and his family is no where to be found. The theme of time assisted with Cheever with the theme of

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