Analysis

The analysis of the short story “The School of Life” by Lauren Keenan shows that it has a chronological plot structure. The story shows Marcus’s first day at his new job at the plant nursery and how he interacts with his new colleagues. He does not develop much, though.

The main character of the story is Marcus. He is a university student whose father makes him work at a plant nursery over the holidays. However, Marcus despises the job and sees it as a punishment. 

The physical setting of the story is a plant nursery in New Zealand. The plant nursery is also a symbolic location for Marcus’s potential growth. The social setting explores class differences.

The story is told by a third-person narrator who adopts Marcus’s perspective. The narration offers insight into Marcus’s thoughts and feelings which helps understand him as a character.

The language is mainly informal and mirrors casual speech. At the same time, Marcus’s narration uses some complex words which highlight his academic background and perceived superiority over his new colleagues. 

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