The Swimmer
by John Cheever

The Swimmer: Allegory 1 key example

Definition of Allegory

An allegory is a work that conveys a hidden meaning—usually moral, spiritual, or political—through the use of symbolic characters and events. The story of "The Tortoise and The Hare" is... read full definition
An allegory is a work that conveys a hidden meaning—usually moral, spiritual, or political—through the use of symbolic characters and events. The story of "The... read full definition
An allegory is a work that conveys a hidden meaning—usually moral, spiritual, or political—through the use of symbolic characters and... read full definition
Allegory
Explanation and Analysis—Neddy’s Journey:

The situational irony at the heart of “The Swimmer” is the fact that the simple and lighthearted endeavor Neddy embarks on at the beginning of the story—to swim his way home through his suburban community over the course of a summer afternoon—ends up being a devastating and life-changing experience.