What is the garden party summary?

The Garden Party is a short story written by Katherine Mansfield, first published in 1922. It follows the Sheridan family as they prepare for and host a garden party at their home. The story is focused on Laura Sheridan, the youngest daughter of the family, who becomes deeply affected by the death of a working-class man who lives nearby on the same day as their party.

The story explores themes of class, privilege, and empathy as Laura grapples with the juxtaposition of her family's extravagant party and the tragic death of a man she has never met. The contrast between the opulence of the party and the poverty of the man's life forces Laura to confront her feelings of guilt and privilege.

Ultimately, Laura decides to visit the man's grieving family and is overwhelmed by the empathy and connection she feels towards them. The story ends with Laura experiencing a shift in her perspective and gaining a deeper understanding of the complexities of life and social class.

Overall, The Garden Party is a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of social dynamics and human relationships. It highlights the importance of compassion and understanding towards others, regardless of their social status.