IGCSE: When it Happens by Margaret Atwood

 Plot Summary of When It Happens

by Margaret Atwood

When It Happens is a post-apocalyptic short story set in a remote rural area after society has collapsed due to war, disease, and environmental destruction. The story is narrated by Mrs. Burridge, a middle-aged woman who lives on a farm with her husband, Mr. Burridge.

The couple has adapted to life in isolation. They grow their own food, raise animals, and avoid contact with outsiders. Mrs. Burridge constantly worries about the possibility of strangers arriving and threatening their safety. Her husband believes that one day people from the cities will come looking for food and shelter.

The title refers to the anticipated moment when "it" finally happens—the arrival of outsiders. Mrs. Burridge lives in fear of this event, imagining the dangers and violence it might bring. At the end of the story, her fears seem justified when a group of strangers appears on the horizon, suggesting that their peaceful existence may soon be disrupted.

The story explores human survival, fear, uncertainty, and the fragility of civilisation.

Major Themes

1. Survival

The Burridges must depend on their own skills and resources to stay alive after the collapse of society. The story shows the importance of self-sufficiency during crises.

2. Fear and Anxiety

Mrs. Burridge constantly worries about the future and the possibility of invasion. Her fear shapes the atmosphere of the story.

3. Isolation

The couple lives far from other people. Their isolation protects them but also creates loneliness and uncertainty.

4. Collapse of Civilisation

The story imagines a world where modern society no longer functions, highlighting how fragile civilisation can be.

5. Human Nature

Atwood explores how people react when survival is threatened. Fear can lead to distrust and suspicion of others.

6. Hope versus Despair

While Mrs. Burridge fears the future, her husband remains more optimistic, creating a contrast between hope and anxiety.

Characters

Mrs. Burridge

The narrator and central character.

Practical, hardworking, and cautious.

Constantly worried about the future.

Represents fear and vigilance.

Mr. Burridge

Mrs. Burridge's husband.

Calm and realistic.

Believes they must be prepared for whatever comes.

Represents resilience and adaptability.

The Strangers

A group seen approaching at the end of the story.

Symbolise uncertainty, danger, and change.

Their arrival creates tension and suspense.

Literary Devices

1. Foreshadowing

Throughout the story, Mrs. Burridge repeatedly talks about the possibility of outsiders arriving. This prepares readers for the ending.

Example: Her continuous concern about strangers coming from the city.

2. First-Person Narration

The story is told from Mrs. Burridge's point of view, allowing readers to experience her fears and thoughts directly.

3. Suspense

Atwood gradually builds tension as the narrator anticipates a future threat.

4. Imagery

The author creates vivid pictures of the farm, the countryside, and the harsh post-apocalyptic world.

5. Symbolism

The farm symbolizes survival and self-reliance.

The strangers symbolize uncertainty and the collapse of security.

The title "When It Happens" symbolizes the inevitability of change.

6. Irony

The couple's efforts to create a safe and peaceful life may be threatened by the very event they have long anticipated.

7. Contrast

The optimistic attitude of Mr. Burridge contrasts with Mrs. Burridge's anxious outlook.

8. Repetition

Mrs. Burridge repeatedly refers to the coming event, emphasizing her fear and expectation.

Writer's Effects

The use of first-person narration helps readers sympathise with Mrs. Burridge.

Suspense and foreshadowing keep readers engaged and create tension.

The open ending leaves readers wondering what will happen next, encouraging deeper reflection on survival and human behaviour.

The bleak setting creates a mood of uncertainty and vulnerability.

Key Message

Atwood suggests that civilisation is fragile, and when disaster strikes, survival depends not only on resources but also on how people respond to fear, change, and uncertainty.

Evaluation 

Read the following question carefully and answer in detail.

How does Margaret Atwood create suspense and tension in When It Happens?

In your answer, you should consider:

the narrator's thoughts and feelings;

the setting;

Atwood's use of language and structure.

Support your ideas with references to the story.

[25 Marks]

Sample IGCSE Answer

Margaret Atwood creates suspense and tension in When It Happens through her use of first-person narration, the isolated setting, and the constant fear of an unknown threat. The story keeps readers anxious because they are aware that something dangerous may happen, but they do not know exactly when or how.

One way Atwood creates suspense is through the thoughts and feelings of Mrs. Burridge, the narrator. Since the story is told from her point of view, readers experience her fears directly. She frequently worries about strangers coming from the cities and taking over their farm. Her anxiety makes readers feel that danger is always close. The fact that she constantly thinks about possible attacks increases the tension throughout the story.

The setting also contributes significantly to the suspense. The Burridges live in a remote rural area after civilisation has largely collapsed. Their isolation makes them vulnerable because there is no government, police, or community to protect them. The lonely farm setting creates a feeling of uncertainty and insecurity. Readers become aware that if trouble comes, the couple will have to face it alone.

Atwood's use of language further heightens the tension. She often uses descriptive imagery to present a harsh and threatening environment. The narrator's descriptions of preparing for survival suggest that danger is unavoidable. The repeated references to the possibility of outsiders arriving make readers anticipate a confrontation. This repetition acts as a form of foreshadowing, hinting that the feared event may eventually occur.

The structure of the story is also effective in creating suspense. For most of the story, nothing dramatic actually happens. Instead, Atwood builds tension gradually through the narrator's worries and preparations. This slow build-up keeps readers expecting something significant. The title itself, When It Happens, suggests that an important event is inevitable. Readers continue reading because they want to discover what "it" refers to.

The ending is particularly suspenseful. When strangers finally appear in the distance, the story ends without revealing what happens next. This open ending leaves readers uncertain about the future of the Burridges. The lack of resolution forces readers to imagine the possible outcomes, making the conclusion even more powerful.

In conclusion, Atwood creates suspense and tension through Mrs. Burridge's fearful narration, the isolated setting, effective foreshadowing, and an unresolved ending. These techniques keep readers engaged and emphasise the story's themes of survival, fear, and uncertainty.