Elements of Fiction

Throughout the short story Identities the author W.D. Valgardson uses various elements of fiction to emphasize important qualities of the story as well as interest the reader. The story follows a man who begins driving and when he must stop to inform his wife of his absence is shot by a nervous, inexperienced police officer. Very many elements are unraveled in this anecdote. However, 3 important pieces of writing that are used include juxtaposition, foreshadowing and irony. With these powerful tools the story carries a theme while giving the reader suspense in their reading.

            Juxtaposition, comparing opposites to emphasize the contrast, is evident from the first paragraph. The author describes the flat characters flashback of childhood memories before reintroducing him as an adult which represent how he has aged and his knowledge. While driving amidst a poor part of a city the reader learns “Although he has on blue jeans-matching pants and jacket made in Paris-he is driving a grey Mercedes Benz.” This large contrast is a possible symbol for how wealth does not always equal happiness and the reader gains a deeper understanding of the character being very wealthy but not necessarily happy.

            Foreshadowing is found in numerous parts of the story. It can be directly found in the comparison of surroundings. When looking at the wealthy man in a rundown neighborhood is can foreshadow that he will not leave without a predicament occurring. More obvious foreshadowing is present when the reader views the protagonists mind and observes his intention to call his family because he “knows that, at first, they have blamed his absence on a neighbor’s hospitality and gin. However, by the time he can return, annoyance will have blossomed into alarm.” and we learn what would happen when he does not return. This begins to bring the reader to the conclusion he may not return.

            The most reoccurring element used by the author is irony. Irony adds to the effectiveness of the story by surprising the reader. After realizing how much his family will worry “he decides to call the next time he sees a store or phone booth”. Only when he does this the innocent man does not know has been followed by a cop. When he finally stops to finish his objective he finds “relief. Instinctively relaxing, certain of his safety.” as a police officer approaches however as the officer sees the “unshaven man in blue jeans as a potential thief” he proceeds to kill him with no hesitation. The irony of him being killed by an officer before telling his wife of his safety is very powerful. All these elements as well as others give this short story depth and are all important in conveying the author’s messages and ideas.