Sun and Shadow
Ray Bradbury
Characters
The Photographer- Known only as "the photographer", he is determined to take pictures using the scenery of Ricardo's neighborhood. Through indirect characterization, we know he is a little oblivious because he does not quite understand why Ricardo is acting the way he is at first, and he keeps trying to move to a different house that he thinks will not bother Ricardo. He, at first, tries to pay Ricardo thinking it will appease him: "Well, here's a five-peso bill" (118). He also seems to be good natured, by the way he meets Ricardo with a smile, "'We're taking fashion pictures,' smiled the photographer" (117).
Plot Line
Rising action: Ricardo yells at the photographer. As the exchange escalates between the two, Ricardo becomes more and more persistent. To make a point, he pulls down his pants, disgusting the photographer. The photographer brings in a policeman, only to find that he will not arrest Ricardo.
Climax: The photographers and the models leave a triumphant Ricardo. This is the moment that the story has been building up to, the point where all of Ricardo's efforts have become successful.
Falling action: The crowd that has gathered applauds Ricardo after effectively removing the photographers. He pulls up his pants, and he bows.
Resolution: Ricardo returns to his home, and the story concludes.
Conflict
Figurative Language
Theme
A quality of this story that makes it compelling is it's use of sarcasm and comedy. Although not explicitly stated, the story is clearly intended to be comical. Ricardo matches the photographer's anger with witty retorts that further irritate the photographer. Because of the comedy the story uses, it is more engaging and easier to look at such an interesting theme. It's easy to forget the stories behind objects and people when we have our own lives, but maybe if we slowed down and tried to understand each other, it would be easier to have respect.