Analysis of Writing Style in "What of This Goldfish, Would You Wish?"

Etgar Keret's short story "What of This Goldfish, Would You Wish?" is a masterclass in storytelling that seamlessly blends elements of magical realism with the ordinary. This essay delves into the intricacies of Keret's writing style, examining how he employs narrative techniques, characterization, and symbolism to craft a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant narrative.

Narrative Technique: Conciseness and Efficiency

Keret's writing style is characterized by its conciseness and efficiency. He presents a complex narrative in a remarkably short space, wasting no words in conveying essential information. This economy of language allows readers to immerse themselves in the story without being bogged down by unnecessary details.

The narrative is structured as a series of brief episodes, each offering a glimpse into the lives of the characters. This episodic format keeps the story moving at a brisk pace, inviting readers to piece together the overarching narrative like a puzzle.

Characterization: Depth in Brevity

Despite the brevity of the story, Keret excels in creating well-rounded characters. Sergei Goralick, the protagonist, undergoes a significant transformation throughout the narrative. Keret skillfully portrays Sergei's inner turmoil and growth, making him a relatable and empathetic character.

Additionally, the secondary characters, such as the old man who captures the goldfish and the eccentric artist, are vividly drawn with just a few telling details. This minimalist approach to characterization highlights Keret's ability to convey depth and complexity with subtlety.

Symbolism: The Goldfish and Its Wishes

The goldfish itself serves as a powerful symbol in the story. Beyond its magical abilities, the goldfish represents the fleeting nature of desires and the pursuit of happiness. Its capture and subsequent wishes mirror humanity's relentless quest for fulfillment, often at the cost of others.

The wishes themselves carry symbolic weight. Sergei's first wish for peace and quiet reflects the desire for escape from life's chaos. His second wish to resurrect the goldfish reflects the human inclination to undo past mistakes. The third wish, to know what the goldfish wished for, symbolizes the yearning for empathy and understanding.

Magical Realism: Blurring Reality and Fantasy

Keret employs elements of magical realism to blur the boundaries between reality and fantasy. The presence of a wish-granting goldfish in an otherwise ordinary world challenges readers to question the nature of reality and the power of belief. This blending of the fantastical with the mundane adds layers of depth to the narrative.

Furthermore, Keret uses magical realism to explore profound philosophical questions about the human condition. The story invites readers to contemplate the nature of wishes, the consequences of their fulfillment, and the ethical dilemmas that arise when confronted with extraordinary opportunities.

Conclusion: A Masterful Fusion of Style and Substance

Etgar Keret's "What of This Goldfish, Would You Wish?" stands as a testament to the author's mastery of storytelling. Through his concise and efficient writing style, he crafts a narrative that is both emotionally resonant and intellectually stimulating.

The story's exploration of narrative techniques, characterization, symbolism, and magical realism showcases Keret's ability to engage readers on multiple levels. It challenges us to reflect on the choices we make, the desires that drive us, and the moral dilemmas we encounter in our pursuit of happiness.