Saturday, January 2, 2021

Short Story Analysis: So Much Water So Close to Home by Raymond Carver

Claire is deeply unsettled by Stuart’s involvement. The two leave to go purchase beer from a nearby store, and Claire notices the river flowing through town, which only increases her suspicion. She asks Stuart why he and his friends needed to go fishing so far out of town, when there is "so much water, so close to him" for them to fish in.

raymond carver so much water so close to home

Lying roughly 100 miles off the north east coast of Scotland, the Shetland Islands are the northern-most tip of Scotland. The islands separate the Atlantic Ocean, on the west, from the North Sea on the east. With a population of just over 22,800 people, the Shetland Islands are actually closer to Norway than they are to the rest of mainland Scotland.

Frequently Asked Questions About Winter in Scotland

That’s why the first thing she says when she arrived home was about Dean. “Water” as the representation of fear, suspicion, death and loss leaves Claire disoriented and vulnerable. The idea of isolation as a theme within the story is explored by way of the lack of communication between Claire and Stuart. While they are driving through town in Stuart’s car, on their way to the beach, neither is speaking to each other. Also after they leave the beach Claire realizes there is nothing she can say to Stuart that won’t get him riled. Again there is the idea that Claire is not only alone but she is disconnected from Stuart.

raymond carver so much water so close to home

Further along the coast in Arbroath visitors can sample the famous Arbroath Smokies, or see Scotland's history come to life at Arbroath Abbey, where the Declaration of Arbroath was signed in 1320. From babbling brooks to dense forests and wild coastal stretches, Dumfries & Galloway is the perfect backdrop for adventure. The stunning natural scenery has inspired poets, artists and writers for centuries; visitors can explore its proud heritage in Wigtown, Scotland's National Book Town, or Kirkcudbright, the Artists' Town.

Explore Scotland's Themed Years

By having sex and getting intimate again with her husband, she actually wants to make believe, and hopefully, make sure, that this is the man she knows as before and she wants that person back instead of just ditch him. There is a sense of identification between Claire and the murdered girl. I would also agree with you that Claire may feel bullied by Stuart.

In 1991 Paul Kelly and the Messengers released their next album Comedy. Raymond Carver's "So Much Water So Close to Home" is an interesting short story detailing the marital tensions between a woman and her husband, who she suspects may have committed a murder. The ever-enchanting Orkney Islands are scattered just off the north coast of Scotland. An archipelago made up of more than 70 islands, Orkney is punctuated by sandy white shores, traditional cottages, ancient stone structure and clear blue waters. This magical region is a hotbed of heritage, culture, wildlife and natural beauty waiting to be discovered.

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I love the ambiguity of this story and find it incredible that a male writer was able to depict with such subtlety and nuance, the fears and suspicions of a woman trapped in an unhappy relationship, disenchanted with men. He lets the reader supply the usual general description, focusing on what is important. Sometimes ugly or brutal, Carver doesn't hesitate to write about difficult situations and the emotions they evoke. If this story touches you, do check out the collection of stories in What We Talk About When we Talk About Love. Claire embodies the dead girl and is transformed into the next possible rape victim unsatisfied with her husbands response to finding the deceased girl floating in the river.

raymond carver so much water so close to home

With a population of just over 22,400 people, it might surprise you to find out that the Orkney Islands are actually closer to the Arctic Circle than they are to London. As they discuss it, Stuart becomes defensive but gives no sufficient explanation for his actions. He simply claims he was innocent and she was dead. He keeps reiterating that “she wasn’t going anywhere,” or that the body would still be there when they left to alert the police.

How cold is winter in Scotland?

Scotland has a good road network that is carefully maintained throughout the year. Roads are regularly gritted in winter and any heavy snowfall is cleared as quickly as possible. On the whole you can expect cool and crisp weather, but ice, rain, wind and snow are all possible too. Extreme weather rarely lasts long in Scotland though.

raymond carver so much water so close to home

Remember to 'think winter' before setting out and ensure you have the necessary safety equipment and skillsfor a safe climbing season. You can also read our guide to outdoor safety in Scotland. There are lots of wonderful accommodation options that are cheaper over the winter months than at any other time of year.

Preview — So Much Water, So Close to Home

Many boast some lovely toasty facilities too, including lodges with hot tubs, hotels with spas and self-catering cottages with coal fires. Head to one of the country's ski resorts to enjoy the views from atop a mountain or lace up your winter walking boots and stretch your legs on a crisp winter walk. You might even spot unique winter wildlife including red deer, robins and squirrels. Whether it's a snowy winter wonderland or the fresh clear air of a bright winter's morning, Scotland in winter is dazzling.

This is likely because she is tired of feeling distant and separated from the man she loves, in spite of her fears. The story ends abruptly, without explaining anyone's involvement, nor resolving what will become of Stuart and Claire's marriage. See all How can I compare the short story "So Much Water So Close to Home" by Raymond Carver and the film adaptation Jindabyne? How can I compare the short story "So Much Water So Close to Home" by Raymond Carver and the film adaptation... A great short story to discuss and really shows creativity.

The timings above are for Edinburgh - the further north you go, the later the sun will rise, and the earlier it will set. Although Scotland does experience extreme weather that can disrupt travel from time to time, getting around is relatively straightforward (and fun!), even in winter. Situated on Scotland's west coast, Ayrshire and Arran is a region characterised by its varied coastlines, picturesque islands and unspoilt beaches. Nature is just the beginning of Ayrshire and Arran's charms; magnificent castles, historic buildings, cultural attractions and a close proximity to Glasgow all make this beguiling region one worth exploring. When she returns home, however, Stuart propositions her for sex, and she surprisingly acquiesces.

I'd give it 5 stars if this wasn't the 3rd time I've been assigned it for a uni class. It's super impactful, but I'm kinda over rape being an acceptable plot device. The conflict in this is awesome, I was deeply affected by it and the title is perfection, but yeah ... Barely takes place over a couple of days, and less than ten pages long, yet the limited word count is used exclusively to its benefit. Carver uses subtext masterfully, with even innocuous lines of prose carrying a huge weight in their context.

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