The Contrast between Environment and The Effect on Nuttel’s Perspective in “The Open Window” by Saki (1914)

Abstract

This paper contains an in-depth analysis of the setting in Saki's short story "The Open Window" (1914). The short story highlights the importance of one's narrative in influencing the perception and psychological state of the other character in a rural environment synonymous with serenity. This emerging perception is influenced by the manipulation that the character of a girl named Vera performs on the protagonist, Mr. Framton Nuttel. The study employs Lukens' approach in which he argues that the setting of a story may be classified in one of two ways: as a backdrop or as an integral part of the story. Setting as backdrop implies that the setting has little influence on characters, plot, or theme. In line with this setting analysis, the results of the study indicate that Saki not only uses the setting as a backdrop but also as a driving force for the plot and as a means to heighten the conflict in the story. "The Open Window" serves as both a literal and metaphorical element that contributes to building trust, manipulation, and irony. Through Vera’s narrative, the results of this analysis confirm that the setting becomes a tool to explore perception and reality. This paper emphasizes that Saki's strong setting intensifies the psychological tension in the story and highlights the complexity of the relationship between humans and their environment, thereby influencing diverse comments on perception and manipulation.