Themes

The main theme of the story “Vanity” by Charles Baxter is that of vanity versus wisdom, enhanced by the theme of young age versus old age. These themes are illustrated through the two main characters, Harry Albert and David Lowie.

Vanity versus wisdom

Vanity and wisdom can be seen as opposing traits. The former is a vice, while the latter is a value. Harry is the character in the short story which is dominated by vanity. He tries to delude himself into thinking that his beauty will...

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Young age versus old age

Young age is mostly characterized by rash decisions and instinctual behavior. Generally, young people live under the impression that the world is theirs and that they can act like they are going to be ‘forever young’.

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