Perspectives

Literary period

Published in 2016, the short story fits the literary movement we call Postmodernism which emerged around the 1960s. Postmodernist works can be recognised through themes, context, and narrative techniques. “Braces” explores the themes of father-son relationships and choosing your own life path. These themes are recognisably postmodernist as postmodern works often focus on identity and on exploring how people’s identities are shaped by their circumstances.

In terms of narrative techniques, “Braces” uses irony, as well as symbols and juxtaposition, which are typical features for postmodernist writers.

The story also focuses on the relationships between the characters and on the physical setting, but it doesn’t draw conclusions or give readers a clear mes...