Focus+Questions

Point of view refers to the vantage point from which a narrative is told. Unlike most other stories, "Journey" is told from a second-person point of view.

1. How does Oates's use of a second-person point of view help make it clear that the story is meant to be interpreted symbolically?

2. Why would the story be less effective if Otaes had used a first-person or third-person point of view?