Setting

“The Raft” by Peter Orner was published in 2000 and the time of the main narrative was most likely meant to be seen as contemporary to this date. The action in the short story takes place one afternoon and probably lasts no more than an hour. Note, however, that the grandfather’s story involves events from World War II.

The references to the Pacific (p. 124, l. 7) and the Eisenhower administration (p. 124, l. 2) indicate that the story involves Americans, and the present narrative is set in the US, while the grandfather’s story is set in the Pacific Ocean.

Physical setting

The main physical setting is represented by the grandfather’s study and closet, which are carefully observed by the boy narrator: “My grandfather's study is carpeted with white shag, which feels woolly against my bare feet. I twist my toes in it. Many cactuses are also in the room.” (p. 124, ll. 20-22)

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Social setting

The social setting is also very important, as it explores different aspects of generational differences. Firstly, it illustrates the different perspectives of the grandfather on war and violence as compared to those of the grandson and his father. While Seymour argues that wartime implies innocent casualties which cannot be avoided and that it is about survival and toughness, the grandson cannot understand...

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