Info
- one of the founders of the modern short story (Horton 708)
- atmosphere takes precedence over plot (708)
- "Feuille D'Album"
- "Miss Brill"
Analysis - "Feuille D'Album"
The structure of "Feuille D'Album" symbolizes the development of Ian French's character. The first half of the story consists of mostly description, reflecting Ian's complacent, uninteresting manner. The story begins to come alive when he sees the girl while eating prunes; to see him performing a normal human action is a change from his usual quiet behavior. The story's flow increasingly picks up speed as he thinks about and follows the girl, climaxing when he addresses her with an egg. For now, the chase stops as he waits for her reaction. This ending is abrupt, yet effective, as it leaves the audience wondering what happens next. Ian either is slightly mad with infatuation or is truly dim in the head. Either way, he has finally succeeded in being interesting.
Application
Perhaps Ian wouldn't have had such a difficult time if he had been more sociable from the beginning. He would've had the confidence to introduce himself to the girl earlier instead of timidly hanging back and wasting time. His experience reminds me to never hesitate, to take hold of every opportunity. If he ends up being embarrassed by his hurried "introduction," he would probably regret not developing his social skills before talking to her. But he can learn from his mistakes, as can I.
Citation
Horton, Ronald A. British Literature for Christian Schools. Greenville, SC: Bob Jones University Press, 1992.
Did you like the story? Thanks for the clear character development in your analysis. Such an interesting character by Mansfield!
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