Setting

The short story “Monster under the Bed” by Lezanne Clannachan is set in London Waterloo train station and the events span over one evening. Although the exact time setting is not mentioned, we can assume the story was meant to be contemporary to the time of publishing, 2011.

Physical setting

The main physical setting is London Waterloo train station, but there are also references to Eddie’s home in Frenley (l. 36). The train station is depicted from Eddie’s perspective. First, the depictions suggest that Eddie experiences a sense of freedom in the station: “Above him, the glass ceiling of Waterloo station soars away. The space makes him dizzy. Feels like he’s inside a giant hot-air balloon flying close to the sun.” (ll. 1-3)

Then, even the station loses its charm and becomes a reminder that he has to go home, something which he is not looking forward because his mother is sick:

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Social setting

The social setting illustrates aspects related to family relationships and mental illness and interactions with strangers.

Eddie is a teenage boy who has to take care of his mother who suffers from agoraphobia (fear of going outside) and possibly depression (he has to take care of her needs). The woman’s illness has pushed Eddie’s father away, so Eddie fills in his role. Although Eddie cares about his mother (he buys her favourite pastries and wants her to get out of the house), the woman’s illness isolates him from social life and confines his options. Eddie gives up football practice and his dog for her sake.

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