“All Summer in a Day” – Ray Bradbury

 “All Summer in a Day” – Ray Bradbury


Summary

The story occurs on the planet Venus, where the sun comes up only every seven years. Margot, remembering the sun, is teased by her peers, who lock her in a closet just as the sun reemerges. The children frolic outdoors, enjoying sunlight for the first time, but later the rain falls. Upon going back indoors, they remember Margot and unlock the closet, to their dismay.

 

Character

Margot, William, Other Schoolchildren, Teacher.

 

Plot Elements

Exposition - The story takes place on Venus, where it has been raining continuously for seven years. Margot, who remembers the sun from Earth, is different from the other children.

Rising action - The children resent Margot’s knowledge of the sun and her unwillingness to participate in their games. They decide to lock her in a closet just before the sun appears.

Climax - The sun finally comes out, and the children rush outside, playing joyfully under its warmth for an hour. They forget about Margot.

Resolution - The rain starts again, and the children return inside, realizing they left Margot locked up. They quietly go to let her out, feeling guilty.

 

Analysis & Feelings
This story raises issues of jealousy, bullying, and regret. Margot's isolation illustrates the way the various among us can be treated. The reader remains wondering if Margot will pardon them. Melancholy of missing such an unusual event renders the story so emotional.

 

 

 

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