Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Separating
Separating by John Updike is a short story based on the marriage of Richard and Joan Maple. The Maples were married for several years and had just entered the mid-life stage and had four children. The source of the divorce comes from Richard’s strong desire to get away and rediscover his youth. It is apparent that Richard is courting another woman, and thinks about telling his children of his actions, while he describes them as ‘four knifelike walls’. Richard and Joan announce that they will be separating, and the eldest daughter, Judith, states that it is ‘silly’ to separate, saying they should either be together or get divorced. This story is a reflection of today’s society and the past ones. Updike is characterized for writing about his own personal experiences and to talk about sex, art and religion. This story is a real good source to see the consequences of what divorces can cause and what really goes on behind the scene and the real motivations that cause them. The children do not have the fault for it but they sure are the main ones affected.
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Cadet Clontz gives an excellent summary and interpretation of the story. This story really drags my attention because it’s a story as cadet Clontz says we can relate too and compare it with these days. Is surd of ironic that seeing how is the kids that actually tell the parents that its “silly” for them to be separated instead of getting a divorce when they are already planning on moving on and as we read the dad who is the main person in the situation has already completely moved on and even has another woman by his side. This was a real good story that I enjoyed reading.
ReplyDeleteI believe that Cadet Clontz summarized the story very well. She also made some very valid points about divorce and how it affects all of those involved in it. The story gives a great view of everything that is seen behind the scenes. Most people don’t know the consequences and all of the effects that come out of a separation or divorce and this story has a good way of showing that. I also agree with the statement Clontz made about the children, even though they aren’t the main ones involved, the consequences and effects of the separation has a great impact on them.
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