English Literature

I. AUTHOR
Morley Callaghan was a Canadian writer known for his insightful exploration
of human nature and the complexities of relationships.
Born in 1903, he grew up in Toronto and became a prominent figure in
Canadian literature during the early to mid-20th century.
He was influenced by several prominent literary figures of his time, including
Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald.
Callaghan was known for his novels, short stories, and plays. Callaghan's
writing often explored themes of morality, social justice, and the struggles of
ordinary people.
Callaghan used to be a journalist. His experience in journalism likely influenced
his writing style, characterized by its clarity, conciseness, and attention to
details.
In addition to his writing career, Callaghan also pursued a career in law.
II. SETTING: It is realistic because people lived on farms or sawmills
during the mid-1900s
1. Time: The story likely takes place in the early 20th century for about
1920s or 1930s, reflecting the rural Canadian landscape and societal norms
of that era.
2. Place: The story unfolds in a small town or rural community in England,
where connections to nature and traditional values are prominent.
3 main places:
- Uncle Henry’s house
- Uncle Henry’s Sawmill
- Pasture and river.
 The story is primarily set on a rural farm, which provides a serene and
idyllic backdrop to the narrative. This setting allows for a deep connection to
nature and a slower pace of life, emphasizing the simplicity and authenticity
of rural living.
 The farm setting contributes to a sense of isolation and solitude, as Luke
and his dog, Dan, live in a remote area away from the hustle and bustle of

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urban life. This isolation heightens the focus on the bond between Luke and
Dan and their self-sufficient way of life.
III. PLOT
 The plot follows Luke Baldwin's emotional journey as he navigates life's
challenges and experiences, particularly his deep bond with his dog, Dan.
This emotional depth allows readers to connect with the characters on a
profound level, creating a poignant and moving storyline.
1. Exposition: Luke, a 12-year-old boy, live with his aunt and uncle because
his father is dying. He promises his father that he will try to become a man
like his uncle Henry before moving to live with them. It’s because his
uncle is admired and respected by a lot of people in the village.
2. Rising action: Luke feels lonely. Luke and Dan develop a deep bond,
offering each other companionship and comfort. Uncle Henry wants to get
rid of him. Uncle Henry asks Luke to buy him cigars. Uncle Henry asks
Mr. Sam to drown the dog in the river. Luke is torn between obeying his
uncle or protecting Dan.
3. Climax: He decides to come back to save the dog. Luke takes off his clothes
and dives into the water, uses his jackknife to cut through the rope and pull
Dan to the ground. Luke tries his best to force the water from Dan's lungs.
Luke ponders what to do with him. He cannot take Dan home because
his uncle will not give up his intention of getting rid of the dog.
4. Falling action: Luke visits Mr. Kemp and asks him for advice. Mr. Kemp
tells Luke to offer his uncle Henry to make a proposition to keep the dog.
5. Resolution: Luke makes a practical proposition with his uncle
( 75 cents/week = keep Dan). Uncle Henry agrees to
Luke's proposition.
**Exposition**:
The exposition of the story establishes the tranquil rural farm setting where Luke
Baldwin lives with his loyal dog, Dan. It introduces the strong bond between Luke
and Dan, emphasizing their deep connection and mutual understanding.
Additionally, the exposition introduces the central theme of the story - Luke's
profound vow to never harm another living creature after a poignant experience
with his dog.
**Rising Action**:

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- The rising action unfolds as Luke faces various internal and external challenges
related to his vow, including societal pressures, doubts about the practicality of his
commitment, and the complexities of human relationships in the context of his
vow.
- Luke's unwavering dedication to his vow and his deep emotional connection with
Dan continue to develop, intensifying the emotional and moral stakes of the
narrative.
- Tensions rise as Luke's resolve is tested, leading to internal conflict and external
pressures that threaten to compromise his commitment to his vow.
**Climax**:
The climax occurs when an intense situation arises that puts Luke's vow to the
ultimate test. This pivotal moment presents a significant moral and emotional
challenge, pushing Luke to confront the true extent of his commitment and the
depth of his bond with Dan. The climax marks the peak of emotional tension and
moral conflict in the story.
**Falling Action**:
Following the climax, the falling action unfolds as the consequences of the
climactic event reverberate through the narrative. Luke's internal struggles and the
impact of his decisions are addressed, leading to a gradual resolution of the
conflicts and tensions that have built up in the story. The falling action sets the
stage for the resolution and the emotional catharsis that follows.
**Resolution**:
The resolution brings closure to the story, as the narrative addresses the aftermath
of the climax and the falling action. This phase allows for character growth,
reconciliation of moral dilemmas, and the reaffirmation of key themes such as
love, loyalty, and the sanctity of life. The resolution also provides an emotionally
meaningful and satisfying conclusion, tying up the loose ends of the plot and
delivering a sense of fulfillment and catharsis for the reader.

The plot structure of "Luke Baldwin's Vow" encompasses a well-crafted narrative

arc, effectively building tension, emotional depth, and moral complexity before
arriving at a poignant and resonant resolution.
IV. POINT OF VIEW: Third-person Limited perspective.
 Build suspense.
 Exploring deeply into the inner worrld.
 Development journey of Luke: thoughts and actions.
 Deeply feel Luke’s love, loyalty and determination to the old dog, Dan.
V. CHARACTERS:

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1. Luke Baldwin:
Protagonist: a 12-year-old boy who has experienced the loss of both his
parents. Luke's love for his dog, Dan, and his determination to protect him
reflects resilience and a strong sense of responsibility.
Luke Baldwin is the central character of the story, a compassionate and
empathetic individual who forms a deep bond with his dog, Dan. He is
portrayed as introspective, morally upright, and deeply committed to his vow to
never harm another living creature.
Throughout the story, Luke's character experiences internal conflict and moral
challenges as he navigates the complexities of his vow, the impact of societal
pressures, and the depth of his bond with Dan. His character undergoes
emotional growth and resilience as he confronts these challenges, reinforcing
his unwavering dedication to his principles.
2. Dan: 11-year-old collie. Having a physical disability, being blind in one eye,
and having a limp.Loyalty and perseverance.
Dan, Luke's dog, is a central and influential character in the story. He serves as
a faithful and loyal companion to Luke, symbolizing the purity of the human-
animal bond.
Dan's character highlights the profound depth of the human-animal bond and
serves as a catalyst for Luke's vow. His presence humanizes the narrative and
underscores the values of empathy and understanding.
3. Uncle Henry:
Antagonist: A practical and sensible man who takes care of Luke after
the loss of his parents. Provides guidance, stability, and a sense of family
for Luke. Well-respected in the community.
Uncle Henry and Aunt Henrietta are family members of Luke Baldwin. They
represent the traditional societal expectations and norms that Luke grapples
with in his personal journey. Despite their good intentions, they inadvertently
challenge Luke's vow and moral principles, leading to inner conflict and
emotional tension.

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Role: Their characters serve as catalysts for Luke's internal struggle and
provide a context for the moral complexities he faces. They represent the
societal pressures and expectations that contrast with Luke's deep empathy
and unwavering commitment to
Aunt Helen:
Supporting character: Uncle Henry's wife and Luke's aunt Helen. Offers love,
care, and emotional support to Luke. A kind, nurturing, and loyal wife.
4. Mr. Kemp:
Catalyst: Live down the road from Luke's family. Adds to the setting and
community aspect of the story. Mr. Kemp's character serves to establish the
setting and community surrounding Luke's home.
Mr. Kemp is a character who interacts with Luke within the rural community
setting. He plays a role in highlighting the challenges Luke faces due to his
vow, as well as the moral dilemma that arises in his interactions with others.
Mr. Kemp contributes to the exploration of societal attitudes towards Luke's
vow and underscores the contrast between Luke's moral principles and the
practical challenges he encounters within the community. His character adds
depth to the narrative by presenting external conflicts that add complexity to
Luke's emotional journey.
5. Sam Carter:
Supporting character: A mill hand who works with Uncle Henry.
Sam Carter is another character within the community who interacts with Luke.
His role contributes to the thematic exploration of empathy, understanding, and
the complexities of human relationships in the context of Luke's vow.
Role: Sam Carter's character provides an external perspective on Luke's moral
journey. His interactions with Luke serve to highlight the emotional and moral
nuances of the story, reinforcing the significance of empathy and compassion in
human interactions.
VI. THEMES
- Practicality is not always the best policy.

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- What is worthless to one person can be valuable to others.
- We need not only bread but roses in our life.
- Empathy is a step closer to true friendship.
- Friendship has no boundary.
VII. SYMBOLISM
 The 1st vow: become a successful person as his uncle.
 The 2nd vow: earn money to protect what he wants in his life.
 Luke's vow to never harm another living creature serves as a powerful
symbol of empathy, compassion, and the interconnectedness of all living
beings. It represents his unwavering commitment to moral principles and the
sanctity of life.
 75 cents: three quarters of a pound => Big number that Luke can earn.
 The dog: companionship and loyalty.
 Dan symbolizes unwavering loyalty, unconditional love, and the purity of
the human-animal bond. His character embodies empathy, companionship,
and the innate goodness of living creatures.
 The transaction: Luke with Mr Kemp, and Luke with Uncle Henry.
=> Maturity and development
VIII. IRONY
1. Situational irony
[When the collie fell down the steps]
-Luke’s expectation: the dog would cross the veranda to him.
-Real situation: the dog fell down the steps, which led to Uncle Henry's decision to
get rid of Dan.
[When Luke asked Mr. Kemp for help]
-Luke’s expectation: Mr. Kemp would: agree to keep Dan, or refuse.
-Real situation: Mr. Kemp helped him by giving him counsel to make a proposition
to Uncle Henry.
[For the dog’s situation]
-Uncle Henry’s expectation: Sam Carter would drought Dan until died.

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-Real situation: Luke saved Dan; Dan was still alive.
[For Luke’s proposition]
-Uncle Henry’s expectation: expected himself to be practical and sensible.
-Real situation: he was overwhelmed with distress after Aunt Helen’s advice
agreed Luke’s proposition
2. Dramatic irony
The readers know the strong bond between Luke and Dan much earlier than Uncle
Henry.
The audience might understand what Uncle Henry wants Luke to learn by saying
“You’ll learn that useless luxuries cost the smartest of men hard-earn money.”, but

it is likely that Luke didn’t understand yet.

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IX. TONE & MOOD

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