Page 2: Falling Action and Resolution

The second page of "Loose Change" focuses on the narrator's internal conflict and the resolution of the encounter with Laylor.

In the falling action (lines 230-258), the narrator's thoughts become more positive as she imagines what it would be like to help Laylor. This section reveals a softer side to the narrator's character, as she briefly entertains maternal feelings towards Laylor.

Example: The narrator imagines what it would be like if Laylor lived in her home, considering how she might care for her like a mother would for a daughter (lines 246-258).

However, the resolution of the story (from line 259) sees a return to the narrator's more selfish thoughts. She becomes preoccupied with how helping Laylor might reflect on her own reputation, rather than focusing on Laylor's needs.

Quote: "All Laylor's grandchildren would know my name" (line 259), revealing the narrator's self-centered motivation.

Ultimately, the narrator chooses to leave Laylor, overwhelmed by the situation and unable to commit to helping her. This decision highlights the central conflict of the story – the struggle between empathy and self-interest.

Characterization narrator: The narrator is portrayed as moody and indecisive, unable to reconcile her conflicting feelings about helping Laylor.

The story concludes with the narrator's inner conflict unresolved, leaving readers to reflect on their own potential responses to similar situations.

Analysis: The open-ended conclusion of "Loose Change" invites readers to consider their own attitudes towards social responsibility and empathy for those in need.

Page 1: Introduction and Rising Action

The first page of "Loose Change" introduces the main characters and sets the scene for their encounter.

The story begins in the National Portrait Gallery in London, where the narrator meets Laylor, a young refugee woman. The author uses a first-person narrative perspective, allowing readers to experience the narrator's thoughts and reactions directly.

Highlight: The story is told from a first-person point of view, providing detailed insights into the narrator's thoughts and experiences.

The exposition (lines 1-84) describes the initial meeting between the narrator and Laylor. The narrator's initial thoughts about Laylor are critical and somewhat judgmental, focusing on her appearance and behavior.

Quote: The narrator describes Laylor's jawline as "solid" and thinks "that she looked to have taken a gentle whack from Tom and Jerry's cartoon frying pan" (lines 27-29).

The rising action (lines 85-169) depicts the developing interaction between the two women. As they converse, the narrator's interest is piqued, but she remains conflicted about Laylor's presence and behavior.

Example: The narrator is disgusted when Laylor wipes sugar from a dirty table into her cup (lines 129-130).

As Laylor reveals more about her difficult circumstances, the narrator begins to feel a mix of pity and discomfort. This section showcases the narrator's internal struggle between empathy and self-preservation.

Quote: "The memory of the bitter cold still tingled at my fingertips..." (lines 170-171), indicating a moment of empathy from the narrator.

The climax of the story occurs when Laylor discloses that she is a refugee. The narrator's reaction is complex, involving skepticism, self-doubt, and a brief reflection on her own family history.

Vocabulary: Climax - The point of highest tension or drama in a narrative.