Part 1 of Essay
In John Cheever’s short story, “The Swimmer”, themes of loss and social status are developed throughout the story. The main character, Neddy Merrill, portrays the idea of a journey. Cheever compares and contrasts Merrill’s beliefs about his own life in both the realms of reality and fantasy throughout his physical, as w ....

Part 2 of Essay
.... seems to dwindle on several levels as the story continues. When Merrill reaches his first pool at the Grahams, they responded to him with open arms. The Grahams are marvelously surprised by his visit and offer him a drink. Merrill did not want to seem rude but he did not have the time to stay. He swam across the pool, spoke with them for a few moments and then moved on to the next pool. Men and women were gathered together drinking at the Bunker’s house for a small poolside party at Merrill’s next stop. Once ....