Vera

Vera is a character in the short story “The Open Window” by Saki. She is 15 years old. Her young age may lead us to think she is innocent, but, in fact, she is both cunning and mischievous. She is Mrs. Sappleton’s niece and most likely lives with her. She is described as “self-possessed” (l. 1), which shows her confident attitude.

Vera is clever and imaginative. She is able to make up stories on the spot, without preparation: “Romance at short notice was her specialty” (l. 102). In the story, she makes up two detailed and original stories, without any preparation, and using elements and people in her environment. Furthermore, she manages to persuade the listeners that her stories are true.

Her delivery of the stories is also creative and convincin...