The Swimmer, John Cheever: Summary & Analysis

‘The Swimmer’ is a remarkable short story penned by the acclaimed American writer John Cheever (1912-82), originally published in his collection "The Brigadier and the Golf Widow" in 1964. Regarded as one of Cheever's most renowned works, ‘The Swimmer’ revolves around the experiences of a middle-aged married man who embarks on an extraordinary journey one summer afternoon. His mission is to swim across the various swimming pools that dot the backyards of his friends' houses on the way back home. The story delves into profound themes such as memory, relationships, American suburban life, affluence, and middle age, presenting a narrative that can be interpreted allegorically, symbolically, and literally. Before delving into a detailed analysis of this fascinating tale, let's begin with a succinct summary of its plot. Plot Summary The story unfolds in one of the Westchester County suburbs in New York, where Neddy and Lucinda Merrill, a married couple, find themselves …