Setting: Where Does the Author Put You?
A description of a story’s setting is part of the exposition, and usually, it is provided at the beginning. When and where a story takes place is often critical to the outcome of the story. Sometimes, you need to know the historical time period in order to understand why the characters act as they do. Also, where the story takes place can be very important. For example, a story about a young man’s passage into manhood that is set in the 19th century American West would be very different from one set in 20th century New York City.
Writers also depend upon their readers’ reactions to descriptions of details. Their words cause you to see, hear, smell, taste, and feel the physical details described. Your reactions to these sensory images usually cause emotional responses as well. For example, if you read about a warm, sunny kitchen where you can smell fresh bread baking, you will probably feel at home and comfortable, ready to like whomever lives in that home.
Analyzing Setting: Why Are You There?
As you begin a short story, it is important that you analyze why the setting is important. Below is such an analysis of “The Enemy” by Pearl Buck.
Story: “The Enemy”
Author: Pearl Buck
Where does the story occur? The story takes place in Japan on the beach that is near Dr. Sadao Hoki’s home.
When does the story occur? The story happens during the World War II.
Why are these details are important to the story?
These details are important to the story because Japan and the United States were at war, and the story depends on the problem Sadao and his wife Hana have saving the life of their American enemy.
Sadao’s house being on the beach makes it possible for the American sailor to wash up on the beach, too ill to walk, without discovery by Japanese troops.