Symbolism In Charles

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Recommended: Lying and its effects on others

The realistic fiction short story “Charles” by Shirley Jackson takes place mostly in Laurie's house and school. It is about Laurie and how he is just starting kindergarten. When he comes home he tells his mom about this kid named Charles who always gets in trouble. His parents are always wondering about Charles and who his parents are. By using the craft moves perspective and plot twist, the author is able to show the the theme of lying affects everyone involved. Lying is the huge problem in the story that has everyone confused. It starts with Laurie's mom not knowing who Charles is. What she does not know is that secretly Charles is actually Laurie. Laurie’s parents are always wondering about Charles but never knew who it is. At the PTA meeting Laurie's mom wants to find out who Charles’ parents really are. The tables turn and everything changes when she comes to a surprising conclusion. She finds out that she is the parent …show more content…

For perspective it goes from Laurie's mom thinking there is this terrible kid named Charles who is rude and very misbehaved to finding out this child is actually Laurie. She finds out at the PTA meeting who Charles’ parents really are. Laurie’s mother truly believes that her son is a good kid and that “Laurie usually adjusts very quickly” (77). This is significant because she see is unable to see her son through his lies. From her perspective her child can only be well behaved. What changes everything is the plot twist. Laurie creates Charles, but the twist is his mom finding out she is the parent of the naughty kid. The embarrassing part is she finds out from a teacher. The author writes, “You must have your hands full with Charles”(77). Laurie’s mother says this because she buys Laurie’s scheme. This is significant because his lies cause her to be embarrassed by her confusion about Charles. His lies impact everyone, not just

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