Perspectives

Literary perspective

The short story “Butterflies” by Patricia Grace has several elements of modernist literature.

The realistic nature of the story is one such element. Despite being funny, the punch line is actually discouraging, as it highlights the gap between two conflicting views, as well as the difficulty of reaching an understanding across social categories. 

Another modernist element is the presence of important contemporary social issues. The story’s main theme is the difference between formal education and informal education and how they can sometimes come into conflict. The difference between the working class and the middle class is another social issue which is touched upon in the story. Since Patricia Grace is a Maori author, the story...