Analysis of The Third One based on Elements of Fiction

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The Third One
The paper analyzes the story "The Third One" based on elements of fiction in the story
like the plot, setting, character, conflict, symbol, and point of view. The story draws upon the
inner conflicts of the modern society through the psychological experiences of the husband and
his wife while the narrator stands as an outsider, reflecting upon the society. The author makes
use of certain symbols to show the weakening moral fabric of the society.
Plot
The plot in the story” "The Third One" is based on the conversations the narrator has with
Zelig Fingerbein, a landlord. As the two talk to each other in a cafeteria, the plot unravels. It is
about Fingerbein, his beautiful wife Genia and Max, a refugee from Poland. Fingerbein and his
wife Genia are connected to the narrator because of his writings. The story shows the emotional
tribulations the characters go through in their life in their quest for love and relationships. Max as
a homosexual is interested in both the husband and the wife. Fingerbein mentions the lack of
good literature and uses the word” homosexual” to show the blurred lines developing in the
modern society. There is no end to the story, only a revelation as to where the modern world is
heading for.
The physical setting of the story is within a cafeteria in New York on Bradway. It is hot
outside while the cafeteria is cool inside. There are three main characters in the story, apart from
the narrator. The narrator is a writer, and as he is enjoying his second cup of coffee, it shows that
he likes to spend time alone in the café. He likes to observe people around him and his thoughts