Test a narrator's claim against the details

1 · Learn

Read this original passage: I was not waiting for anyone. I had simply chosen the bench opposite the arrivals gate. Every time the doors opened, I stood to stretch; every time a stranger emerged, I sat down again. At six, I folded the unused welcome sign into my bag.

A narrator's direct claim can conflict with their actions. We can infer waiting from repeated watching, standing and the welcome sign, while acknowledging that the narrator does not openly admit it.

2 · Worked example

The welcome sign is concrete evidence that the narrator expected an arrival. It supports an interpretation more strongly than inventing a relationship with an unnamed person.

3 · Your turn

Which two details challenge the narrator's opening claim?

4 · Apply your learning

Write a cautious interpretation using 'suggests', then explain why the absent person's identity cannot be established.