Analysis
An analysis of the short story “The Dress” by Julia Darling shows that the text has a non-chronological structure. The story focuses on a seemingly random event in the life of Flora, who fell in love with her sister’s dress and took it without asking. The event escalates into a conflict with negative consequences for both the sisters and their mother.
The main characters are sisters Rachel and Flora, and their mother. The relationship between the two sisters shows that they act like rivals, while the mother’s behavior suggests that she is frustrated with their attitude.
The setting is the house where the two sisters live with their mother and the restaurant where the mother celebrates her 40th birthday. The description of Flora’s room, in particular, offers insight into her character.
The events are told by a third-person omniscient narrator, who has access to the thoughts of all characters. The narrator switches perspectives, so the events are presented alternatively from the points of view of Rachel, Flora, and the mother. This choice helps readers gain insight into each character and learn about their motivations.
The language used in the short story is informal and allows readers to focus on the dynamics between characters. The story is filled with symbols and contrasts which characterize the relationship between the two sisters, as well as the mother’s loneliness and frustration.
You can read a full analysis of the short story on the following pages.
Excerpt
Below, you can read an excerpt from our study guide:
