Literary Analysis: "A Rose for Emily"

I had read “A Rose for Emily” during high school, so I was prepared for the odd plot and disturbing realization of Homer Barron in the ending. When I first read the short story a couple years ago my main thoughts were that this story was extremely different and Faulkner was a very interesting, as well as odd, writer. While reading “A Rose for Emily,” for the second time, I found my self much more interested in the story overall. I was mainly concerned with Miss Emily’s feelings and emotions throughout her life.

The point of view used in this story caused me to feel extremely sorry for Miss Emily. The way Faulkner presented the point of view from an outsider, or neighbor, judging Miss Emily constantly throughout the years, created sympathy in me for Miss Emily. As a reader, I did not fully understand Miss Emily’s thoughts or emotions, so it was hard to fully understand her as a person. Instead, I viewed her as an unfortunate and misunderstood human being.

One of my favorite symbols in the story is Miss Emily’s house. My english teacher during high school loved to stress the symbolism of how Miss Emily and the house were related deeply in the story. They both represented southern tradition in the 19th century, although the world outside the house, and outside of Emily’s mind, was changing. The sidewalk being built is a subtle example of the changing world. I think Miss Emily was scared of change, as she became extremely reclusive after her father died. As well as most likely killing her suitor, Homer Barron. I think she killed Barron in an attempt to “freeze” time.