Perspectives

Literary perspective

The short story “At the Clinic” by Sally Rooney is a modernist work of fiction. The story is set in modern times and focuses on a seemingly unimportant event in the life of a character – a wis…

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Works with the same theme

The theme of miscommunication is explored in the short story “A Serious Talk” by Raymond Carver. Burt and Vera, the main characters, are a separated couple who meet the day after Christmas to open presents with their children. The two of them barely talk to one another and are unable to discuss their relationship. While Vera is uncomfortable and tries to avoid Burt, he lets his impulses get the best of him. When comparing the two short stories, you could look at Burt and Connell’s similar attitudes towards the men in Vera and Marianne’s lives.…

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Works by the same author

We recommend you read the novel Normal People by Sally Rooney, which is based on the short story “At the Clinic”. The characters of Marianne and Connell are more developed in the novel, where their relationship is followed over the years. Furthermore, the novel explores complex themes like identity and social status and looks at how they influence the dynamics between Connell and Marianne. …