Analysis

The short story “The Lie” by Raymond Carver has a linear structure. The plot centers around the conflict between a husband and a wife. As the reader follows their argument, they expect to find out the truth by the end.

The main character is the unnamed husband. The most important aspect about him is his relationship with his wife. 

There is not much known about the physical setting, but the action probably takes place somewhere in the United States. The focus of the setting is the couple's apartment.

The story is told by a first-person narrator who is also the main character. The narrator presents the conflict with his wife in a detached manner, which is slightly unusual for a first-person narrator involved in the events. 

The language is neutral. Dialogue plays an important part in the story and illustrates the couple’s inability and unwillingness to communicate properly.

You can read a more detailed analysis in the following pages.