Page 1: A Day's Wait - Analysis
Ernest Hemingway's short story "A Day's Wait" revolves around a misunderstanding between a father and his son, Schatz, due to the boy's illness. The narrative begins with Schatz, a nine-year-old, falling ill, prompting his father to call a doctor. Upon examination, the doctor records Schatz's temperature as 102 degrees Fahrenheit, prescribing medicine and advising not to worry unless the fever exceeds 104 degrees.
Highlight: The crux of the story lies in the misunderstanding of temperature scales between Fahrenheit and Celsius.
The story takes a turn when Schatz, believing he is dying, refuses to let his father near him to prevent contagion. Eventually, the father enters Schatz's room, leading to a revealing conversation where Schatz inquires about how long he has to live. The father, puzzled, assures him he's not dying. Schatz then explains that he believes he can't survive with a temperature of 102 degrees, based on information from a schoolmate about dying at 44 degrees.
Quote: "Some boy in France had told him you can't live with forty-four degrees."
Hemingway introduces three main characters:
- Schatz: The brave young boy facing what he believes to be imminent death.
- The father: The narrator who eventually realizes and resolves the misunderstanding.
- The doctor: A minor character whose actions inadvertently contribute to the confusion.
Character Analysis: Schatz displays remarkable stoicism in the face of perceived death, showcasing Hemingway's theme of grace under pressure.
Hemingway employs a first-person narrative through the father's perspective, utilizing long sentences for descriptions and short, realistic dialogues for characterization. This narrative choice limits the reader's insight into Schatz's thoughts, creating a sense of mystery around the boy's internal struggle.
Highlight: The atmosphere is somber and tense, reflecting Schatz's belief in his impending death.
The setting primarily focuses on Schatz in his bed, with a brief change when the father goes for a walk, providing a momentary shift in perspective.
