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Essay / Themes and techniques in “What would you like from this goldfish?” »
Table of contentsExploring the theme of greed and selfishnessHuman connection and lonelinessThe consequences of unintended wishesNarrative structure: blurred reality and fantasySatire and social commentarySymbolism: the talking goldfishHumor and IronyCultural context and identityConclusion: Reflection on themes and narrative techniquesIn the field of short stories, “What would you like from this goldfish?” ” by Etgar Keret presents itself as a gripping tale that touches on themes of greed, human connection, unintended consequences, and much more. Through the story of a talking goldfish that grants wishes, Keret skillfully weaves a tapestry of emotions, desires and reflections. This essay explores the complex web of themes and narrative techniques employed by the author to convey deep meanings that resonate beyond the surface of the story. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essayExplore the theme of greed and selfishnessThe theme of greed forms a fundamental pillar of the story's narrative. Each character's encounter with the talking goldfish reveals their inherent selfish desires. The wishes they make are often motivated by personal gain, reflecting a disregard for the well-being of others or the consequences of their actions. This exploration of human greed invites readers to consider the pitfalls of pursuing self-interest without considering the broader implications for oneself and others. Human Connection and Solitude Beneath the fantastical premise lies a theme of human connection and loneliness. The protagonist's interactions with the talking goldfish highlight his feelings of isolation and his desire for true companionship. As the wishes are revealed, it becomes clear that the characters' desires reflect deeper emotional needs. Through these interactions, the story highlights the universal human desire for connection and the isolation that can result from unmet emotional needs. The Consequences of Unintended Wishes The story is rich in examples of unintended consequences, a narrative technique that adds layers of complexity to the story. The characters' wishes lead to unexpected and often negative results, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful decision-making. This technique serves as a cautionary tale, reminding readers that choices made without careful consideration can have far-reaching effects, reshaping the course of life in unforeseen ways. Narrative structure: blur between reality and fantasy. Do you want it? » is a masterful blend of reality and fantasy. Keret skillfully oscillates between the ordinary and the extraordinary, blurring the lines between the mundane and the magical. This stylistic choice not only captures the reader's imagination, but also reinforces the story's themes by grounding them in familiar contexts. The interplay between reality and fantasy adds depth to the narrative, inviting readers to contemplate the intersections of the two realms. Satire and Social Commentary Keret uses satire and social commentary as a lens through which to examine the values and priorities of contemporary society. The characters' wishes reflect dominant societal trends and materialistic aspirations. History serves as a mirror that reflects the cultural emphasis on material gain and superficial desires. Through satire, Keret offers a critique of the superficiality of these activities, inviting readers to question the societal values that drive them. Symbolism:.