Analysis

The analysis of the short story “Son of Satan” by Charles Bukowski reveals that it follows a linear, chronological plot structure. The story is broken into two parts, each with its own external conflict. 

The main character in the story is the unnamed narrator. He is the leader of his group of friends – Morgan and Hass – and initiates the verbal and physical aggression against Simpson. At home, he is a victim of his father’s violence.

The events take place in the narrator’s house and backyard, most likely in a town in the United States. The story takes place in summer. The social setting explores issues such as violence and abuse in the family, bullying, and peer pressure.

The story is told from the point of view of an unnamed first-person narrator. The narrator is subjective but not unreliable.

The language is informal and casual, with many slang words and swear words in narration and dialogue. These help create the atmosphere of aggression and fear. It also fits the dirty realism characteristics. 

You can read a more detailed analysis in the following pages.

Further help

For more advice about analyzing short stories, you can read our general guide to short story analysis.