Raymond Carver Cathedral

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An Everlasting Epiphany Sparked by a Blind Man: Analysis of the Narrator in “Cathedral” by Raymond Carver
Often, there is an expectation in stories that there should always be an underlying main purpose or theme. It has become more relevant for stories today to have a character who ultimately learns a lesson that changes their outlook on life. In discussing Raymond Carver’s “Cathedral” many people believe that the narrator’s experience with the blind man has a temporary effect. This effect arises from his lifelong misunderstanding of people with disabilities, as well as the discomfort he has for his wife having a friendly relationship with a blind man named Robert. Some believe that the narrator will revert to his old ways of life even after …show more content…

Robert’s character in the story could be thought of as a Godly figure that helps guide the narrator to his religious epiphany. Much like a religious figure in Christianity or other religions, they are used to guide people to see the Word of God and his power. The important factor that leads one to believe that the narrator has had a life-changing experience is his hesitation to realize his own reality. The author hesitates to come back to reality during his experience with Robert when stating “But I had my eyes closed. I thought I’d keep them that way for a little longer. I thought it was something I ought to do” (42) as Robert tells him to open his eyes and look at what he has drawn. At this moment, the narrator has become in touch with his religious views after first stating that he did not have any. Robert knows that he transformed the narrator when assisting him drawing the cathedral because he continually encouraged him to keep going although he felt he couldn’t. After they had finished, the blind man stated “I think that’s it. I think you got it. (42) as the narrator encounters his moment of religious transformation. Robert insisted that he find his way to completing the cathedral that he knew was deep inside of him all along. The narrator sat in silence and peace after his epiphany to reminisce with the bliss he was experiencing that would last

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