John Cheever’s story “The Swimmer” depicts a protaganist, and the society that has nurtured him, as lacking in seriousness and responsibility. Neddy, the bewildered protagonist, represents a society satirized for centering its values on social status and materialism. During the course of Neddy’s journey, the illusions he has constructed about his life are stripped away, and in the process the truth behind his society is realized. In unveiling the tragedy of Neddy’s …showed first 75 words of 609 total…

…showed last 75 words of 609 total…society by uncovering the affliction of Neddy’s existence. The fact that Neddy feels that he still holds the same social stature as he previously did, exhibits his ignorance and inability to accept his own misfortunes. Throughout the story, both the society and Neddy think that they can avoid the problems of life by consuming alcohol, obtaining wealth, and partying. Ultimately, the personal tragedy of mankind results from his own ignorance and misperception of reality.