Analysis

An analysis of the short story “The Third and Final Continent” by Jhumpa Lahiri shows that the narrative has a chronological structure. The story follows the narrator across several years, as he travels across three continents and tries to build a life for himself. 

The main character of the story is the narrator, an Indian man who settles in America with his wife, Mala. Mrs. Croft, the narrator’s elderly landlady, plays an important role in the story and becomes a reminder of personal strength and of his first weeks in America.

The story’s physical setting changes several times, and the events take place on three continents: Asia, Europe, and North America. The journey through continents and the narrator’s eventual success shows that he has achieved the American dream. 

The story is told by a first-person narrator, who is also the main character. His account is objective and straightforward as he recounts his life. 

The language used in the story is neutral and straightforward. The story also contains similes and symbols which highlight its meaning. 

A full analysis of the short story can be found in the following pages.