Analysis

The analysis of the short story “The Path to Heaven” by Mary O’Donnell shows that it follows a linear, chronological plot structure. The main conflicts in the story – between Lauren and her husband, as well as the understated conflict between Lauren and Kalina – are internalized by Lauren at the end.

The main character in the story is Lauren, a middle-aged Irish writer who hires a Polish immigrant, Kalina, to do her housework. The two women have a friendly relationship, which is challenged by their cultural differences and an awareness of their different social statuses.

The story takes place in Lauren’s home in Ireland, close to the time when the story was written. The social setting explores social status, cultural differences, and immigration, as well as domestic violence and people’s attitude towards it.

The story is told from the point of view of a third-person narrator who has access to Lauren’s thoughts and feelings. As all the events and characters are seen through Lauren’s point of view, the narrator is limited.

The language is informal and casual, creating a sense of connection between the reader and the main character. The language in the dialogue gives each character an individual voice, making them sound more realistic to the readers.

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

Further help

For more advice about analyzing short stories, you can read our general guide to short story analysis.