Analysis

An analysis of the short story “Bedtimes” by Tim Parks shows that the narrative has a chronological structure. The events take place over the course of seven days and are marked from Monday to Sunday. 

The main characters of the short story are Mary and Thomas, two spouses who constantly avoid each other by making excuses and who are not ready to solve their marital problems.

The story’s physical setting is Mary and Thomas’ house. The focus is on the couple’s bedroom, where the two characters find ways of avoiding each other by sleeping or pretending to be asleep. 

The events are told by a third-person narrator who shifts the focus from Mary to Thomas. The narrative presents their perspectives equally and gives readers an idea about the couple’s problems. 

The story’s language is simple and clear, with stylistic choices that suggest the idea of a routine. 

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