Theme Paper on the book The Swimmer by John Cheever

  Theme Select one of the works listed below and write a 2-page paper that asserts a statement of theme about the work. A statement of theme is, put simply whatever general idea or Insight the story reveals. It is different than a moral, which is some lesson to be learned. Morals are often found in fables and parables. Short fiction has themes, which are not always obvious. For example, in Araby, it would be incorrect to state the theme as such: "A boy goes to a bazaar to buy a gift for his crush, only to arrive too late." This Is not a theme. It's the plot. Even if we were to add something onto the end of that, like "And he has his romantic visions shattered by cruel reality." That's getting closer, but it's not a theme; its still a plot summary with a bit of interpretation added. A better statement of theme might be 'the romantic illusions of youth are false and easily dispelled, and all young men must learn this cruel truth." Try to avoid pithy summaries of theme like "loss of innocence." True, loss of innocence does happen In the story, but work your statement of theme towards something specific. Use the suggested method listed on page 186 of your textbook for help. This short paper must Include at least 1 scholarly source. Cite your work in MLA. Use Courier New, 11 pt font, double spaced. This will be due Monday, April 16. Select one of the following: • The Ones Who Walk Away From Omelas • A Good Man is Hard to Find • Dead Men's Path • The Swimmer • The Chrysanthemums