“I Stand Here Ironing” by Tillie Olson
Short Story Analysis
Answer the questions as specifically as possible with textual references, but do so quickly.
1.
Who is the “you” in the first sentence?
2.
Is the narrator static or dynamic? Justify with a quotation from the beginning and one from the end, and
label her state in each one.
3.
Define the ongoing (including the current) external conflict between mother and daughter. Use specific
terms.
4.
Define the mother’s internal conflict (how she is conflicted with herself).
5.
The narrator refers to “all that life that has happened outside me, beyond me.” What factors beyond her
control have affected her relationship with her daughter? In a brief list, identify five economic, personal,
and/or historical factors (note their effects only if necessary for clarity.)
6.
Identify three factors/circumstances within her control for which the mother seems to be willing to take
blame and accept as her mistakes (use 3 quotes). (Form: “She takes the blame for X when she states,
“[quotation].”)
7.
Analyze the summary paragraph (the penultimate one) that begins “I will never total it all.” Why does the
narrator say this equation would not be an adequate explanation of Emily’s character? Does this seem like
excuse making on her part for her daughter’s trouble? (Form: three or more analytical sentences)
8.
Consider the “help” Emily receives at the convalescent home: how does it connect to or influence the
mother’s statement “Let her be,” at the end?
9.
In what way does the story’s final paragraph express the narrator’s feeling of resignation (acceptance)? In
what way does it express an affirmation (approval)? (use quotations)
10. Explain the “ironing” metaphor by showing its relevance to:
a. The mother’s wish for her daughter
b. The mother’s view of her own life
11. Write a theme statement for this story.