Structure

The short story “The Bench” by Richard Rive has a chronological structure. The narrative follows Karlie, the main character, after he witnesses some speeches on discrimination and oppression. 

The story begins in media res, with part of a speech on racial discrimination (p. 213, ll. 1-8). Karlie is then introduced: “Karlie’s eyes shone as he listened. Those were great words (…) and true” (p. 213, ll. 10-12). As the narrative progresses, flashbacks are introduced to present Karlie’s background, as well as the mentality of the people in his native village: “Ou Klaas said that God made the white man and the black man separately…” (p. 213, ll. 40-41). 

A foreshadowing element is introduced when Karlie thinks that he will also end up like the smiling people...