Analysis

The short story “A Wrinkle in the Realm” by Ben Okri has a linear structure. The events happen in chronological order as the reader follows the unnamed main character in his journey to discover why people avoid him. The plot also follows the main character’s development as he goes from someone who people avoid to someone who is accepted.

The main character is an unnamed man who represents the experience of someone excluded from society. The story focuses on his personality but also on how other people perceive him. 

The physical setting is London. The action takes place in the Underground, the main character’s work place, which is an advertising firm, and also at the local market. The social setting hints at the issue of racism and racial stereotyping.

The story is told by a third-person narrator who observes and comments upon what the man goes through in his daily life. The narrator also gives insight into the man’s thoughts and feelings.

The language is neutral. The narration uses simple words and short sentences, making the reader concentrate on the events rather than the language.

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