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What is the main difference between the story's settings,The Cop and the Anthem and The Walrus and the Carpenter?

3 answers

"The Cop and the Anthem" by O. Henry and "The Walrus and the Carpenter" by Lewis Carroll have different settings that significantly contribute to their narratives.

  1. Setting of "The Cop and the Anthem":

    • The story is set in a wintry New York City, specifically in a park where the protagonist, Soapy, wanders. The cold weather forces him to consider his life choices and his desire for a warm place to sleep. The urban setting reflects themes of poverty, social issues, and the struggles of the individual within society. The hustle and bustle of the city contrasts with Soapy's internal conflict and desire for change.

  2. Setting of "The Walrus and the Carpenter":

    • This poem is set in a fantastical, whimsical environment by the sea, featuring a beach and coastal elements. The setting serves as a backdrop for the surreal encounter between the Walrus, the Carpenter, and the young oysters. The playful and nonsensical nature of the setting complements the poem's themes of deception, manipulation, and the darker undertones of the characters' interactions.

In summary, while "The Cop and the Anthem" evokes a realistic urban struggle in a cold city, focusing on personal and social challenges, "The Walrus and the Carpenter" presents a fantastical and playful seaside setting that highlights themes of absurdity and deception.

Which one is the answer?

The main difference between the settings of "The Cop and the Anthem" and "The Walrus and the Carpenter" is their nature and impact on the story:

  • "The Cop and the Anthem" is set in a cold, urban New York City during winter, which reflects themes of poverty, survival, and social issues faced by the protagonist, Soapy.

  • "The Walrus and the Carpenter" is set in a whimsical seaside environment, characterized by its playful and absurd nature, which aligns with the poem's themes of manipulation and the darker aspects of seemingly innocent interactions.

So, the answer to your question is that "The Cop and the Anthem" has a realistic urban setting that reflects serious societal issues, while "The Walrus and the Carpenter" takes place in a fantastical seaside setting that highlights absurdity and playfulness.