Analysis

An analysis of the short story “Last Bridge Burned” by Ron Rash shows that it has a non-chronological structure, and the main events are revealed through a flashback. 

The main character of the story is Carlyle, and we get much information about his thoughts, attitude, and perspective on the mysterious woman who shows up at his doorstep. Carlyle is defined by his troubled past and life of isolation. 

The setting of the story is a gas station in North Carolina. The isolation of the setting mirrors the main character’s isolation. The social setting looks at aspects related to living at the bottom of society and to changes in social status. 

The story is told from the point of view of a third-person narrator. The narrator follows Carlyle’s perspective, which helps readers relate to him and builds suspense, because the readers learn the facts of the story along with him.

The story’s language includes metaphors and similes which help set the mood and express the characters’ sometimes grim perspective on life. Symbols help highlight themes and contrasts between the two characters. 

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