Analysis

The analysis of the short story “The Thing Around Your Neck” by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie shows that it follows a chronological plot structure. The narrative is circular, beginning with Akunna’s trip from Nigeria to America and ending with her return to Nigeria. 

The main characters are Akunna and her boyfriend. The story is focused on the ups and downs of their relationship, leading to their eventual breakup.

The physical setting for the main part of the story is Connecticut, America. The social setting tackles ideas such as stereotyping and prejudices.

The story is told from the point of view of the main character, Akunna, but using a second-person narrator. This enhances the readers’ empathy with Akunna.

The language is neutral. The style of language is casual and conversational. The story introduces words of Nigerian origin, which add authenticity to the events.

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

 

Short story analysis

I denne vejledning får du Studienets hjælp til at analysere noveller (short stories) i engelsk.