Structure

The short story “The Kiss” by Kate Chopin has a chronological structure. The narrative follows the characters from Nathalie and Brantain’s courtship until their wedding day. 

The story can also be divided into three separate scenes. In the first scene (ll. 1-38), Nathalie and Brantain’s meeting is interrupted by Harvy, who kisses Nathalie, unaware of Brantain’s presence. In the second scene (ll. 39-60), Nathalie and Brantain meet at a reception, and Nathalie explains the misunderstanding and lies to Brantain about the nature of her relationship with Harvy. In the final scene (ll. 61-75) which takes place at Nathalie and Brantain’s wedding, Nathalie and Harvy end their relationship. 

The three scenes are separated by narrative gaps and the text does not provide information a...