Answer:
In the short story "Night Calls" by Lisa Fugard, the heron is used to increase and resolve the conflict in the story. The conflict in the story is between the protagonist, Marion, and her daughter, Sarah. Sarah is upset with Marion for not being there for her when she needed her, and Marion is trying to make amends.
The heron is first introduced in the story when Marion sees it in the pond outside her house. She is fascinated by the heron and watches it for a while. Later, when Sarah comes to visit, she sees the heron as well and is also fascinated by it. However, when Marion tries to use the heron as a way to connect with Sarah, it backfires. Sarah accuses Marion of trying to buy her love by showing her the heron.
The heron's presence in the story increases the conflict between Marion and Sarah because it becomes a symbol of their differences. Marion sees the heron as a beautiful and fascinating creature, while Sarah sees it as a reminder of how different they are from each other. This disconnect causes more tension between them and makes it harder for them to connect.
However, the heron is also used to resolve the conflict in the story. After Sarah leaves, Marion goes outside to watch the heron again. She realizes that the heron is a reminder of the beauty and mystery in life, and that it is okay for her and Sarah to be different from each other. This realization helps Marion come to terms with the conflict between her and Sarah and gives her the strength to continue trying to connect with her daughter.
In conclusion, the heron is used to increase and resolve the conflict in "Night Calls" by Lisa Fugard. Its presence in the story highlights the differences between Marion and Sarah, but ultimately helps Marion come to terms with those differences and find a way to connect with her daughter.