Perspectives

Literary perspective

The short story “Appointment” by Olivia Parkes is a modernist work of fiction. The first-person narrator is a feature that modernist writers often use in their work. In “Appointment”, this helps readers…

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Works with the same theme

We recommend you read the short story “The End of Something” by Ernest Hemingway, which also deals with the theme of change. In the story, the theme is illustrated through the transformation of a town after the collapse of the lumber industry, but also through Nick’s relationship with Marjorie. In the story, Nick takes one step towards change by breaking up with Marjorie, as he values his independence more than a committed relationship. When you compare the two stories, consider the different forms that change can take – it can either mean something small, like having a haircut, or something life-changing, like ending a relationship. 

The short story “Hemi’s Gift” by TJ Corrigan explores the theme of human connection and kindness. In this story, the narrator, a young Maori student, is traveling by bus to her father’s funeral and wishes to be alone. However, another Maori named Hemi reaches out to her and offers her the opportunity to come to terms with her father’s death. When looking at the two stories, you could discuss the way kindness and reaching out to people can help them better cope with the…