Light Breathing

Style and Technique

The story «Light Breathing» by Ivan Bunin is characterized by a concise and expressive style. Bunin uses simple yet powerful phrases that convey deep emotions and the states of the characters. The language of the story is rich in metaphors and symbols, which helps create an atmosphere and convey the inner world of the characters. An important literary device is the contrast between the heroine's external lightness and internal tragedy. The structure of the story is non-linear: it begins with a description of Olya Meshcherskaya's grave, then moves into a retrospective of her life and tragic death, enhancing the dramatic effect. Bunin masterfully uses details to reveal the characters and their fates, making the story rich and multi-layered.