Analysis

The analysis of the short story “May the Best Man Win” by Kit de Waal shows that it follows a linear, chronological plot structure. The entire action revolves around an evening at the pub. 

The main characters are Patti, the bartender, and Eddie, one of the newcomers. The two of them flirt throughout the evening, and appear to like each other.

The physical setting is a pub in Birmingham, England, called The Carpenter’s Arms. The events take place on a Saturday night in December 1981. The social setting explores racial issues.

The story is told from the point of view of a third-person narrator. The narrator follows Patti’s perspective, giving the readers insight into her thoughts and feelings.

The language is formal. There is a marked contrast between the language used in the narrative and the informal language used by the characters.

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