Analyzing Point of View in John Updike's "A & P"

Introduction

John Updike's "A & P" employs a captivating narrative through the lens of first-person point of view. This literary choice brings to life the protagonist, Sammy, a nineteen-year-old grocery store employee. The story unfolds through Sammy's eyes, revealing his distinctive perspective marked by inappropriate descriptions, overreactions, and colloquial language. Examining Sammy's narration in first person offers a deeper understanding of his character, allowing readers to explore the complexities of his teenage mind and the consequences of his impulsive actions.

The Lens of First-Person: Sammy's Overreactions

Sammy's first-person narrative sheds light on his overreactions, setting the tone for the story.

As a cashier at A & P, Sammy, initially portrayed as lacking responsibility, grapples with his impatience. The entrance of a group of girls becomes a catalyst for a series of events, starting with Sammy's distracted handling of a customer's purchase. This incident not only highlights Sammy's initial shortcomings as a cashier but also reveals his propensity for overreaction, a trait that shapes his character throughout the narrative.

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Sammy's critical nature is evident as he scrutinizes a customer, creating a mental image of a "witch" to mask his frustration. This early encounter serves as a precursor to Sammy's later behavior, foreshadowing his tendency to pass judgment on others based on superficial observations. Updike strategically uses first-person narration to provide readers with insight into Sammy's internal world, laying the groundwork for the narrative's subsequent developments.

Sammy's Superficial Perspectives: A Closer Look

Sammy's superficial perceptions, fueled by his obsession with outer beauty, become pronounced through the lens of first-person narration.

As the girls meander through the store, Sammy's gaze fixates on their imperfections, revealing a hypocritical contrast between his perceptions and his own imperfections. Hailing from a modest background, Sammy's blue-collar upbringing seems to influence his judgment of others, particularly the girls he encounters in the store.

The narrative exposes Sammy's tendency to label the girls with sexist names based on their physical appearances, reflecting a shallowness that contradicts his own standing. His derogatory nicknames and judgments unveil a boy enamored with outer beauty, oblivious to the depth within individuals. First-person point of view becomes instrumental in capturing Sammy's limited worldview, emphasizing the stark contrast between his perceptions and the reality of those he encounters.

The Heroic Act and Unveiling Deception: Sammy's Decision

Sammy's first-person perspective takes center stage in the narrative's climax, where his desire to be a hero unfolds. As the manager, Lengel, attempts to enforce the store policy due to the girls' attire, Sammy faces a pivotal decision. The first-person narrative allows readers to witness Sammy's internal struggle and the altered decision-making process when women are involved. Desiring to impress the girls, Sammy impulsively quits his job, showcasing an unexpected heroic gesture.

Through the lens of first-person narration, Updike navigates the complexities of Sammy's motivations, offering readers a front-row seat to his impulsive actions. The irony lies in Sammy's belief that he is rescuing the girls, while in reality, they leave the store unnoticed, and Sammy faces the consequences of his hasty decision. The first-person point of view becomes a crucial element in unraveling Sammy's internal conflict, his misguided heroism, and the deceptive nature of appearances.

Conclusion

In conclusion, John Updike's "A & P" artfully employs first-person point of view to delve into the psyche of the protagonist, Sammy. Through Sammy's eyes, readers gain access to his overreactions, superficial judgments, and impulsive decisions. The narrative unfolds in a way that would not be possible with a different point of view, offering a nuanced exploration of teenage perspectives and the consequences of snap judgments. Updike's strategic use of first person not only provides a vivid portrayal of Sammy's character but also challenges readers to reflect on the deceptive nature of outward appearances.