Analysis

The analysis of the short story “Rendezvous” by Daniel Ransom shows that it follows a chronological plot structure, with frequent changes of perspective between the two characters, who each have their own conflicts. Payton’s conflict is mainly with himself, while Kim’s conflict is with her parents. However, at the end, all signs point to a future conflict between Payton and Kim.

The only active characters in the story are Payton and Kim. The priest to whom Payton went to confess and Kim’s parents are mentioned as well, and have some influence on the thoughts and actions of the two main characters. 

The events take place on an interstate road in the United States of America on a rainy afternoon. The social setting explores issues such as family relationships, crime and religion.

The story is told from alternating points of view: Payton’s and Kim’s, which suggest a narrator who has access to both of their thoughts and feelings. However, the narrator’s knowledge appears to be limited to the character whose perspective is being shared in each section. 

The language is casual and informal, and the sentences are short, also making use of the “stream of consciousness” method. There are many important symbols in the story which can aid the interpretation.

You can read a more detailed analysis in the following pages.