Analysis

The analysis of the short story “You Are Here” by Dana Miltins shows that it follows a linear, chronological plot structure. The narrative begins when the woman arrives at the man’s caravan and ends a few days later when the snake is killed.

We enter the minds of both the man and the woman, but the main character in the story is the woman. She wants to have children, while her partner does not. This highlights the incompatibilities between them. The snake-catcher is also an important character, as he presents a different worldview.

The physical setting is the hot Australian desert, where the couple currently live in a caravan. The social setting explores the cultural differences between the man and the woman and the Aboriginal snake-catcher.

The story is told by a third-person narrator. The narrator gives us insight into the woman’s thoughts and feelings, presenting things mainly from her perspective. However, we also get insight into the man's thoughts and feelings.

The language is casual and conversational, using common words and phrases. The story is rich in symbolism which is central to understanding what it is about.

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