"Once Upon a Time" is a short story by South African author Nadine Gordimer. In the story, the family's neighborhood experiences an increase in crime and a sense of fear. The family, in an attempt to protect themselves, installs various security measures such as alarms, gates, and even a watchdog. However, the heightened security measures contribute to a growing sense of paranoia and isolation.
As the story progresses, the family's efforts to safeguard themselves inadvertently lead to tragic consequences, highlighting the destructive nature of fear and mistrust within the community. The narrative serves as a commentary on the societal issues of apartheid-era South Africa, exploring themes of segregation, prejudice, and the consequences of trying to protect oneself from perceived threats.
The question
In "Once Upon A Time, "What happens in the family’s neighborhood?