What is the narrator’s attitude toward the visit of the blind man? Why is he so threatened by the idea of that visit? How might the blind man threaten his worldview and/or values? What do you make of the narrator’s not being named in the story?

Answer 1

The narrator's attitude toward the visit of the blind man, which is likely a reference to the short story "Cathedral" by Raymond Carver, is one of discomfort and insecurity. The narrator feels threatened by the idea of the blind man's visit for several reasons. First, the blind man represents a challenge to the narrator's perceptions of the world and his own identity. The narrator appears to be somewhat narrow-minded and is initially judgmental about people he sees as different or outside of his understanding, including the blind man.

The visit threatens the narrator's worldview and values in several ways. The narrator seems to take pride in his ability to see and interpret the world visually, yet the blind man has a profound understanding of life that transcends visual perception. This challenges the narrator's sense of superiority and forces him to confront his own limitations, both in terms of empathy and in experiencing life fully. The blind man's acceptance and openness ultimately contrast starkly with the narrator's cynical and defensive attitude. The blind man also embodies a form of connection and communication that the narrator struggles with, creating a sense of fear about vulnerability and emotional openness.

The narrator's anonymity in the story can represent a number of themes, including the idea of identity and self-perception. By not naming the narrator, Carver may illustrate how the narrator's insecurities and fears about the blind man reflect a broader struggle with self-identity. It allows readers to engage with the narrator's experience in a more universal way, making his inner conflict relatable and highlighting the themes of isolation and human connection that run throughout the story. The lack of a name might also suggest that the narrator is not fully aware of who he is or what he values, emphasizing his internal struggle and growth over the course of the visit.

Overall, the visit from the blind man serves as a catalyst for the narrator’s transformation, illustrating the importance of confronting one's biases and embracing a deeper understanding of what it means to truly "see."