Analysis

This analysis of the story “The Highest Branch on the Tree” by Ray Bradbury will focus on several aspects.

We will present the structure of the story looking at the importance of the title, as well as plot-related narrative techniques such as plot twist, backstory, and foreshadowing.

We will provide a characterization of the two main characters, Douglas and Harry, focusing on their development, actions and attitude, as well as their relationship.

We will explore the setting of the short story focusing on the two timelines and the symbolism of the tree. We will also discuss social setting aspects such as teenage bullying and professional status.

We will focus on the narrator, Douglas, considering that he has a limited-knowledge perspective.

We will also examine the language used by the author, paying attention to the choice of words, imagery, irony, repetition, rhetorical questions and symbols, discussing their role in making the story more appealing.

Read the entire analysis in the next pages of this study guide!