The Swimming Contest” by Israeli writer Benjamin Tammuz

Question

In a full paragraph, name the work, describe the setting, and explain why it is so important to the overall story or poem.

Answer 1

"The Swimming Contest" by Benjamin Tammuz is a short story set in a small Israeli town during the hot summer months. The story follows a group of young boys who decide to hold a swimming contest in the local river as a way to cool off and pass the time. The setting of the river provides a backdrop for the boys' playful and competitive spirits, as they race each other across the water. The contest serves as a pivotal moment in the story, as it highlights the boys' camaraderie and the importance of friendship and unity in the face of challenges. Ultimately, the swimming contest becomes a symbol of the boys' bond and serves as a metaphor for the shared experiences and memories that shape their relationships.