Conflicts

Conflict is central to the short story “Trio For Four Voices” by Jane McLaughlin. There are several external conflicts in the story, although some of them turn out not to be real (like the conflict between Amelia and her mother, and Amelia’s father and his wife). There is also the narrator’s internal conflict, as she wishes to do something about Amelia, but does not know how to act.

The conflict between Amelia and the narrator is central to the story. At first, the narrator is fascinated by Amelia and her self-confidence. This quickly changes as Amelia confesses that she hates her mother and intends to kill her (l. 40). This unexpected admission leaves the narrator shocked and horrified. Amelia suggests this the next day too, when her mother is gone to a painting workshop. Amelia also has a defiant and ...