Theme

Raymond Carver’s short story “Gazebo” explores the theme of withered or faded love in a relationship that cannot be saved. On top of the fact that Duane cheated on Holly, the couple also has poor communication skills. Holly is the one who keeps expressing how she feels, but Duane does not seem to understand her. 

In the beginning, Duane remembers how, while working together at the motel, he and Holly each had specific tasks. This shows how their relationships used to be good and they got along with each other , working well as a team. After Holly finds out about Duane’s affair with Juanita, working together becomes difficult, so they stop being as productive as before.

I stopped cleaning the pool. (...) I didn't fix any more faucets or lay any more tile or do any of the touch-up painting. We...