The woman

The story “Solo Dance” by Jayne Anne Phillips does not contain any direct references to the woman’s outer characterisation. She is not given a name, age, or occupation, enhancing the sense that readers are witnessing a brief episode in her life through her eyes.

Inner characterisation

The woman’s inner characterisation is constructed through her actions, as described by the narrator. Note that readers are not given any details on what the woman is feeling; her feelings and thoughts can only be interpreted through the context.

At the beginning of the story, we learn that the woman had not been home in a long time (l. 1). This suggests that the woman lives on her own, implying that she is an adult. More importantly, however, it suggests an estranged relationship between the woman and her parents.

The woman comes back home to keep her father company in the hospital: “She went to the hospital every other day, sitting for hours beside his bed” (ll. 2-3). The woman also helps him with simple tasks, such as shaving and combing his hair (ll. 11-15), and entertains him by reading his get-well cards out loud (ll. ...

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