Analysis
The analysis of the short story “We Can’t Be Good at Everything” by Emma Sloley shows that it follows a linear plot structure. The events follow a chronological order, and the setting remains the same throughout the story.
The main character in the story is Miles Warden, a young man. His relationship with his mother, Fenella, is the focus of the story.
The physical setting is unspecified. The events appear to take place in an English-speaking country in the 21st century. The social setting focuses on parenting and gender roles.
The story is told by a third-person narrator who has insight into the thoughts and feelings of Miles Warden. The narrator has limited knowledge, and the other characters are seen from Miles’s point of view.
The language of the story is marked by a sarcastic tone at times, which mirrors the main character's bitterness towards his mother.
We also provide you with study questions to get started. You can find the answers to them on the individual pages of this study guide.
You can read a more detailed analysis in the following pages.