Charles

Charles: Short story by Shirley JacksonMost readers see Laurie, the subject of this Shirley Jackson story, as a naughty boy who tries to gain attention by misbehaving at kindergarten. He creates an alter ego named Charles to tell his parents what happens at school and later, to explain getting home late. In addition to considering issues like parental blindness and/or poor parenting, it is worth asking if there could be other interpretations. For instance, did Laurie behave quite normally at school, and create an imaginary naughty classmate to gain attention at the dinner table? Both are consistent with the teacher’s vague assessment of Laurie’s behavior.

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One thought on “Charles”

  1. they should take better care of there child and not listen to the internet talk to the teacher in person and what parent would fall for that not a good one a good parent would check it with the teacher

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