The Swimmer

The American suburbs produce similar feelings of disconnection across the nation, yet John Cheever mainly set his work in the Northeast. How would this story be different if it were set in the Midwest or the South? What social or political specificities of the Northeast shape “The Swimmer,” and what does Cheever do to help ground it in this place and time?

Cheever’s use of imagery is important throughout the story. Is there a specific detail, particularly relating to the setting, that you found important that was not discussed in this guide? How does Cheever tie the description of the image to the setting and the themes of the story?

Neddy Merrill does not have many meaningful interactions with other characters in “The Swimmer.” Compare his conversation with Helen and Eric to his conversation with Shirley Adams—the only two instances when more than a few lines are traded back and forth. What do these conversations say about Neddy’s relationship to these individuals? How does his knowledge (or lack thereof) of their lives seem to affect him?