Analysis

The analysis of the short story “They’re Not Your Husband” by Raymond Carver reveals that it follows a chronological plot structure, with elements of foreshadowing. 

The main character is Earl Ober, a salesman who is between jobs. His wife Doreen is another important character, and Earl seems to associate the way people see Doreen with his own status and success. The two men in business suits at the coffee shop are also worth mentioning, as their observations about Doreen trigger Earl’s internal conflict.

The physical setting switches between the coffee shop where Doreen works and Earl and Doreen’s house. The social setting explores gender roles and the objectification of women. 

The story is told from the point of view of a third-person narrator who only has access to Earl’s thoughts and feelings. The narrative is explicit when referring to the characters’ actions and implicit when hinting at Earl’s emotions.

The language is casual and informal. The style is minimalistic, offering little information about the characters’ thoughts and feelings, and focusing mainly on their actions. Narration is mixed with dialogue, giving the characters authentic voices.

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