"The Swimmer" is a short story by John Cheever that tells the tale of a man named Neddy Merrill who, on a hot summer day, decides to swim home through the pools of his affluent suburban neighborhood. As he makes his way through each pool, Neddy encounters various neighbors and friends who offer him refreshments and engage him in small talk.
At first, Neddy's journey seems like a fun and playful adventure. He is described as being "in excellent condition" and "full of high spirits" as he swims through the crystal-clear waters of his neighbors' pools. However, as the story progresses, it becomes clear that Neddy's swim is not simply a leisurely activity. Rather, it is a desperate attempt to escape from the realities of his life.
As Neddy swims, he begins to realize that many of the people he encounters are strangers to him. He cannot even remember the names of some of his neighbors, despite the fact that he has lived in the community for years. This realization is a painful one for Neddy, as it highlights the fact that he has lost touch with the people around him.
Furthermore, Neddy's journey is marked by a series of increasingly strange and unsettling encounters. At one point, he meets a group of young boys who seem to be playing a sinister game in the pool. Later, he encounters a woman who is weeping uncontrollably on the side of the pool. These encounters serve to underscore the underlying sense of unease and isolation that pervades the story.
Ultimately, Neddy's journey comes to an end when he arrives at his own empty house. As he stands on the edge of the pool, he realizes that he has been swimming in circles and that his journey has brought him right back to where he started. This revelation is a devastating one for Neddy, as it signifies the emptiness and meaninglessness of his life.
In many ways, "The Swimmer" is a commentary on the hollowness of the suburban lifestyle. The story portrays a world in which people are isolated from one another and disconnected from the natural world. It suggests that the pursuit of material wealth and social status can ultimately lead to a feeling of loneliness and disconnection.
Overall, "The Swimmer" is a poignant and thought-provoking tale that serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of living a superficial and disconnected life. It is a powerful reminder of the importance of genuine connection and the need to live a life that is rooted in meaning and purpose.
