Analysis

An analysis of the short story “Ice Cream” by Helen Dunmore reveals that the text has a chronological structure, following a model’s struggle to take control of her life. The narrative lacks a falling action and a resolution, and the story ends with the climax. 

The main character is Clara, a fashion model. The narrative presents her craving ice cream, although Clara does not usually eat sweets. Another important character is Elise, Clara’s personal trainer, who tries to convince her to stick to her diet. 

The physical setting is the restaurant where Clara celebrates her birthday. The social setting deals with issues related to the fashion industry, such as dieting and maintaining one’s figure as a model, often with big sacrifices.

The short story is told by a third-person narrator, who mainly adopts Clara’s point of view of the events. At times, the narrator switches perspectives and offers the waiter’s point of view, as well. 

The language used in the short story is neutral and mirrors the characters’ social status and background. Dialogue is briefly used to show the relationship between characters, to build stereotypes, and to present Clara’s inner struggles. 

A full analysis of the short story can be found in the following pages. 

Short story analysis

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