Perspectives

Literary period

Catherine Moffat’s short story “Better Homes and Gardens” was first published in 2016, in Hope Anthology, and holds postmodern characteristics. The postmodernist literary movement experienced a rise in the post-World War II era and gained popularity throughout the late twentieth century. Postmodernism is still a popular literary style used by many authors today.

Postmodernist works can be recognised through themes, context, and narrative techniques. This particular short story has many traits that are common to postmodern literary works; for example, the social setting refers to contemporary issues in modern society, such as homelessness and social stigma.

The story has political, social, and philosophical nuances, as it raises questions about the treatment and situation of homeless people. The story’s themes discuss hope...