Perspectives

Literary period

The short story “The Bench” by Richard Rive is a modernist work of fiction. 

Published in 1963, the short story deals with contemporary issues, like the discrimination and oppression caused by apartheid in South Africa. A characteristic of modernism in literature is the opposition against tradition, including against traditional political views. In the story, the traditional political system is challenged with the help of Karlie, the main character. Furthermore, the story presents Karlie’s inner struggle and conflicting ideas regarding the equality between the whites and the blacks. Another modernist characteristic is the use of symbols. In the story, the bench begins by being a symbol of racial segregation and discrimination but ends up being a symbol of resilience and determination. 

Historical perspective

The events described in the stor...