Summary of the short story "The Park."

"The Park" is a short story by Ray Bradbury that follows the protagonist, Margot, a young girl who is the only one in her class who remembers what the sun looks like. The story is set on Venus, where it rains constantly and the sun only comes out for one hour every seven years. The children in Margot's class eagerly anticipate the rare occurrence of the sun, but on the day it is supposed to appear, they lock Margot in a closet, causing her to miss it. The story explores themes of isolation, longing, and the cruelty of children.

Summary of "The Park"

"The Park" by Grace Paley tells the story of a young mother named Sarah and her two-year-old son, Teddy. One afternoon, Sarah takes Teddy to the park to escape their cramped apartment.

At the park, Sarah and Teddy sit on a bench and watch the other children play. Sarah reflects on her own childhood and the carefree joy she experienced in parks. Suddenly, Teddy runs off with another child, Daisy. Sarah follows them and observes a group of children playing a game called "house."

Teddy becomes upset when Daisy makes him pretend to be the baby. Sarah intervenes and gently explains to Teddy that he doesn't have to do anything he doesn't want to. Daisy's mother, a middle-aged woman named Mrs. McCarthy, also intervenes and encourages Teddy to play as he chooses.

As they watch the children play, Sarah and Mrs. McCarthy strike up a conversation. They talk about their children, their lives, and the challenges of motherhood. Sarah realizes that she is not alone and that other mothers face similar struggles.

Eventually, it's time to go. Sarah and Teddy leave the park, feeling connected to the other parents and the sense of community they've shared. As they walk home, Sarah reflects on the importance of finding joy and support in unexpected places.