Literary Analysis: "Paul's Case"
Trevor Brown
Point of View
An aerial view of Cordelia Street shows that there was an omniscient point of view in "Paul's Case." The narration saw everything that was happening in Paul's life.
Characterization
Paul cares very much for pecuniary matters. He would rather have money and spend time with the wealthy than do anything else. This really shows his character's true interests and his outlook on life.
Setting
Paul's job at Carnegie Hall seemed to be the one thing that he truly expressed feeling for. This reveals his love for art and partially explains his love for the expensive/fancy lifestyle.
Symbolism
The red carnation symbolizes Paul's freedom and capacity to do as he pleases. In his life, he must do other things even if he doesn't enjoy them. The red carnation that wilts in the snow represents the loss of his freedom and willingness to live, which he proves by killing himself.
Theme
In life, beauty can be found in anything, whether it is in nature or in a song. Paul finds beauty in a monetary lifestyle and art rather than the natural beauty of the world.
Works Cited
_e.t. Davies Symphony Hall. Digital image. Flickr.com. N.p., 10 June 2007. Web. 12 Feb. 2013.
Hans. Marigold Marigolds Turkish Carnation Dead Flower. Digital image. Pixabay.com. N.p., 17 Aug. 2011. Web. 12 Feb. 2013.
Miks. Aerial View over the Living Houses and City Streets. Digital image. Shutterstock.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 13 Feb. 2013.
Nuño, Bruno S-A. Several 100 dollar bills. Digital image. Flickr.com. N.p., 21 Dec. 2012. Web. 11 Feb. 2013.
Pressmaster. Close-up of Human Hands Cheering up with Flutes of Golden Champagne. Digital image. Shutterstock.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 13 Feb. 2013.