Final answer:
In "Neighbors" by Raymond Carver, the author suggests that human nature is complex and driven by curiosity, desire, and a need for connection. Carver uses characterization to explore this theme and demonstrate how our actions reveal our true desires and motivations.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the short story "Neighbors" by Raymond Carver, the author suggests that human nature is complex and can be driven by curiosity, desire, and a need for connection.
Carver uses characterization to prove this point by showing how the actions and thoughts of the main characters reveal their true desires and motivations.
For example, Bill and Arlene Miller, who are the central characters of the story, initially seem like ordinary, contented neighbors. However, as the story progresses, it becomes clear that they are fascinated by the lifestyle and possessions of the couple who live in the apartment next door.
They resort to invasion of privacy by entering their apartment and pretending to be them in order to experience their luxurious lifestyle. This demonstrates the human nature's tendency to desire what others have and the lengths people may go to fulfill their desires.
Furthermore, Carver also uses characterization to show the theme of dissatisfaction and longing for something more. Despite having a comfortable life, Bill and Arlene yearn for an excitement and vitality that is lacking in their own lives. Through their actions, Carver suggests that human nature is often driven by a constant search for fulfillment and a desire to break free from the mundane.