A Gap of Sky by Anna Hope Essay Example
A Gap of Sky by Anna Hope Essay Example

A Gap of Sky by Anna Hope Essay Example

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Gap
  • Pages: 3 (621 words)
  • Published: August 30, 2016
  • Type: Paper
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The perception of youth is often associated with limitless confidence and a belief in conquering challenges and accomplishing anything. Nevertheless, the actual experience of being young is not always as uncomplicated. In addition to the freedom that accompanies youth, there are also obligations and pressures that swiftly remind us of reality. In Anna Hope's 2008 short story "A Gap of Sky," drugs and freedom have significant roles. The protagonist, Ellie, is a nineteen-year-old student residing in London.

Living in a college, Ellie resents her education and holds her parents responsible for her enrollment. She feels exhausted by her obligations, including the impending deadline for an essay she has already postponed multiple times. A letter from her course at UCL warns that failure to submit this essay will result in her expulsion.

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Based on this letter and further evidence, including involvement in substance abuse, excessive drinking, and frequent socializing, it is clear that Ellie is prioritizing her freedom over her education. She recognizes that life encompasses more than just academic obligations and opts to partake in drugs, cigarettes, and alcohol to fully embrace this sense of liberation. While walking through the streets of London to buy ink for her printer, Ellie encounters a discarded leather glove with its middle finger raised, arousing a mischievous sensation within her.

Ellie's belief in infinite possibilities is reignited when she encounters the leather glove, restoring her faith in life. Accompanied by two gentlemen, Ellie visits the British Museum where an exhibit on Living or Dying pills induces a severe headache, making her feel as though death is imminent. Overwhelmed by fear, she becomes pessimistic and

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loses all self-assurance. However, as she exits the museum, she notices a part of the sky resembling an aperture, symbolizing a potential opportunity.

The river offers a sanctuary from the busy city and social demands, allowing her to escape expectations and regain a positive outlook. Initially using drugs to write an essay due to low confidence, by the story's end she has discovered happiness and self-assurance in facing any obstacle.

At the end, Ellie realizes that love is what connects people - love for others, the city, and life itself. She had not felt this emotion for a long time but this epiphany helps her make decisions about her future and determining what is right. The city of London plays a significant role in "A Gap of Sky" as it is where Ellie resides. It is a bustling place with noise, ghettos, and tall buildings. Being in this location gives her easy access to drugs, parties, bars, and clubs which she indulges in throughout the week.

Living environment significantly shapes an individual's identity and choices. Had Ellie resided in the countryside instead of the city, it is probable that she would have steered clear of drugs and transformed into a distinct person. However, being a city dweller does affect Ellie in multiple ways. The urban lifestyle leaves her feeling bewildered and isolated, making her feel insignificantly small due to the abundance of opportunities and constant presence of numerous individuals.

The story is narrated in the third person but reflects Ellie's thoughts. The writing style captures the raw and coarse language of a nineteen-year-old, allowing us to understand her perspective and how

she interprets the world.

The story explores various themes, but one important message is the importance of avoiding drugs. Individuals who have experienced drugs are aware of the temporary rush and fleeting happiness it may bring, but ultimately drugs only bring harm. Ellie's drug use complicates simple tasks like writing an essay, highlighting the negative effects of drugs. The wisest choice is to steer clear of such environments, as it becomes challenging to escape once involved.

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