Identities – Title/Theme
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The title of the short story “Identities” by W.D Valgardson illustrates the theme
of the story. The main idea or theme of the short story is the mistaking of identities. The
title refers to the different identities seen by the characters although some were false and
some were real. The policeman saw the protagonist’s as a thief or some sort of gang
leader. The protagonist viewed the police as his savior, or someone who can help him in
the tight situation. The title also refers to the symbols in the story, such as the
protagonist’s wallet, which symbolized his identity. He kept his identity hidden so he
would not get robbed, but hiding his identity only further convinced the police officer
that he was a bad person. The title “Identities” very clearly explains the theme and
concept of the story using simply one word.