A Small, Good Thing by Raymond Carver 2

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Literary Analysis: "A Small, Good Thing" by Raymond Carver
Raymond’s short story, “a small good thing,” is about the death of a boy and constant failure of communication. This story captures the pain that the death of Scotty has caused, bringing isolation, and helplessness. However, through others the family feels connected due to death. Raymond argues that understanding others in a small way is a good thing because it provides empathy, enhances good communication, and further helps in connecting with others when dealing with loss.
However not everyone can be understanding in a way that offers comfort. According to Flaubert a renowned French physiologist, it is not easy for people to communicate empathetically and connect with others unless one has undergone such a situation. In reference to the story, the baker first encounter with Ann the mother of Scotty who later died did not show any of these feelings, until tragedy struck when he was able to feel connected to the family in grief.
When one acknowledges and shares his feelings with another person, this shows empathy. This is to show that we feel with the person so that he cannot feel isolated that might cause more pain. When we communicate through our feelings, it portrays our genuine feelings for the loss one is undergoing and this becomes more powerful than even words. When dealing with loss connecting to others can make one feel valuable. This is usually witnessed when others feel for the family members even though they are not close family members. Due to their experience, or what they are currently undergoing, people are driven to connect with the persons affected.
Although an individual ma...