Analysis

An analysis of the short story “Serrusalmus” by Lesley Glaister shows that the narrative follows a non-chronological plot structure. Several flashbacks give more information about the main character and help readers understand her motivation. 

The main character of the short story is Marjorie, a middle-aged woman who suffers from agoraphobia. Mick is another important character, and his conflict with Marjorie is what drives the story forward. 

The physical setting is Marjorie’s apartment, where she lives mostly isolated from the rest of the world. The aquarium and the formicary are also important elements of the physical setting. The social setting mainly focuses on attitudes towards anxiety disorders.  

The story is told by a third-person narrator, who presents Marjorie’s perspective of the events. 

The language used in the short story is neutral. The narrative is mainly descriptive, and the authenticity of the text is created with the help of words related to fishkeeping. 

A full analysis of the short story can be found in the following pages.