Analysis of The Fly by

Katherine Mansfield
- Ummehaani Fahim 3419

"The Fly" is a short story written by Katherine Mansfield, first published in 1922. This
poignant narrative delves into the human condition and explores themes of life, death, and
the fleeting nature of existence. In this analysis, we will examine the narrative technique, use
of symbolism, and the significance of the title in the context of the story.

Narrative Technique: Katherine Mansfield employs a third-person limited point of view to

tell the story. This narrative technique allows the reader to experience the events through
the perspective of Mr. Woodifield, a friend of the main character, who visits him after a long
time. This narrative choice provides an external view of the protagonist's emotions and inner
turmoil, which adds depth to the story. Through Mr. Woodifield's observations and
interactions, the reader gains insights into the main character's state of mind and the tragedy
that has befallen him.

Mansfield also employs a non-linear narrative structure, shifting between past and present.
This technique helps in building the backstory and gradually revealing the reason behind the
protagonist's somber mood. The narrative's structure parallels the character's emotional
journey, as his reminiscences alternate with his interactions with Mr. Woodifield, creating a
poignant juxtaposition of memories and present reality.

Use of Symbolism: Symbolism plays a crucial role in "The Fly," enriching the narrative and
deepening its thematic resonance.

• The Fly: The fly itself is a central symbol in the story and serves as a metaphor for
the impermanence of life and the inevitability of death. The fly's presence in the story
is twofold. At the beginning, the main character watches a fly struggle in an inkpot,
becoming an unwitting witness to its suffering. This scene foreshadows the character's
own anguish later in the story. Just as the fly's struggle is futile and ultimately ends in
its demise, so too does the protagonist's internal struggle with grief and loss.
• The Office Setting: The office space where the story predominantly takes place is
another symbolic element. It represents the mundane routine of life, the passage of
time, and the confinement of human existence. The office becomes a backdrop
against which the protagonist's inner turmoil is contrasted. The way the protagonist
engages with his work and the world around him reflects his emotional state,
revealing the impact of his past tragedy on his present life.
 • The Photographs: The photographs of the protagonist's deceased son on the office
wall serve as a powerful symbol of both memory and loss. They become a trigger for
the protagonist's grief, transporting him back to a time of happiness and connection.
The photographs also represent the fleeting nature of human experiences and the
cruel reality of mortality. Their presence is a constant reminder of what has been lost
and can never be regained.

Significance of the Title: The title "The Fly" holds multiple layers of significance. On a
literal level, it refers to the fly that Mr. Woodifield observes struggling in the inkpot, and the
protagonist's reaction to it. However, on a deeper level, the title encapsulates the broader
themes of the story.

The fly symbolizes the ephemeral nature of life and the inevitability of death, echoing the
famous phrase "time flies." This symbolism draws a parallel between the fly's fleeting
existence and the impermanence of human life. The title thus serves as a thematic anchor,
highlighting the story's exploration of the fragility of existence and the haunting presence of
mortality.

Furthermore, the title can be interpreted metaphorically. Just as the protagonist watches the
fly's struggle and empathizes with its suffering, the reader becomes an observer of the
protagonist's own struggle with grief. The title invites the reader to reflect on their role as
witnesses to the various hardships that individuals face, connecting the small, seemingly
insignificant moments to the larger narrative of life's complexities.

In conclusion, "The Fly" by Katherine Mansfield is a masterfully crafted short story that
employs narrative technique, symbolism, and a thought-provoking title to explore profound
themes of life, death, and human suffering. Through the third-person limited perspective, the
reader gains insight into the protagonist's emotional journey, while symbolism adds layers of
meaning to elements like the fly, office setting, and photographs. The title encapsulates the
story's overarching themes and invites readers to contemplate the fleeting nature of
existence and the role of empathy in understanding human struggles.