Analysis

The analysis of the short story “Nairobi” by Joyce Carol Oates shows that the plot follows a linear, chronological structure, and the main conflict is internal. The structure holds some unusual elements, as the climax turns into an anticlimactic moment, because of the main character's lack of interest.

The main character is Ginny, a young woman who accompanies Oliver Leahy for the evening, to pretend she is his upper-class girlfriend in his meeting with an upper-class couple. Other characters are Oliver Leahy and the couple, Herbert and Marguerite Crews.

The physical setting is a pleasant, windy Sunday in early April, in the rich part of New York City: the shops on Madison Avenue, Fifth Avenue, and the apartment building where Herbert and Marguerite live. The social setting explores the behavior and accepted attitudes in upper-class American society. It also deals with issues such as class differences and the purpose of conversation.

The story is told from the point of view of a third person narrator who is limited and only has access to Ginny’s thoughts and feelings.

The language is casual and informal, providing a contrast between Ginny’s inner voice and the person she is pretending to be under Oliver’s guidance.