Summary and Analysis

The narrative in "Mr. Charles," unlike the narrative that follows the boy's memories, is more straightforward. The metaphors that the writer uses to describe what is happening are stated as metaphors, and so when thoughts are compared to tumors, we know that it is a way of describing a thing. Where the boy would see metaphors taking shape and overwhelming reality, the sensible Mr. Charles does not indulge in fantasy to that degree.

We see Mr. Charles, left by his family for the summer, returning home after work. He is exhausted, filled with the mechanical monotony of work. He goes to bed and tosses and turns in a dream world where the pillows and sheets come to life. When he wakes, the ecstasy of the night before is forgotten. Mr. Charles groans, worries about finances and dresses slowly. A...