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Essay / Imagery and Symbolism in the Cathedral, by Raymond Carver
In the short story Cathedral, by Raymond Carver, the author uses imagery, symbolism and tells the story in the first person. The main theme of Cathedral is being able to identify the difference between being able to look and/or see and this is represented through the role of the main characters in the story. Carver uses a unique writing style that gives the short story an easy way for the reader to understand the theme of the story. This story is about how the narrator is unable to see what life really gives him and finds it through the eyes of a blind man. his wife's friend. The cathedral is a touching story, in my opinion, because it reflects what many of us in society take for granted. This shows how important it is to give people a chance and to be able to see the true meaning of what surrounds us even if it doesn't matter to our personal life. Throughout the short story, Carver uses several figurative languages to state the theme of the story. Carver's goal of having the narrator of the short story use imagery allows the reader to understand each moment he experiences while explaining the blind man's behavior. , Robert, visits his home. In Cathedral, the narrator tells the story in a very detailed and descriptive manner. For example, when the narrator describes his wife's arrival with Robert: “I saw my wife laughing as she parked the car. I saw her get out of the car and close the door... She went around to the other side of the car, where the blind man was already starting to come out... he had a full beard! Here, the author has the narrator describe the scene and details it as if he were describing it to a blind man. Most of the short story uses imagery that creates clear images in the reader's mind to understand...... middle of paper ... could be just another object, a building, a feeling or even a person , can be life changing. In my opinion, I believe that the new Cathedral clearly represents that a person can change and be able to understand their personal feelings and emotions without trying to see and/or touch them. Additionally, Carver makes the narrator seem like a real person that the reader can relate to. Specifically, when the narrator feels uneasy about his wife bringing the blind man for a visit or when he finally meets the blind man and offers him a joint. These experiences that the narrator experiences are real experiences that the reader may also feel or encounter at some point. Overall, the short story should be read by all students as it is a good genre and easy to read as well as understand and tell. ReferencesCarver, R. (1983). Cathedral.