I Stand Here Ironing

by Tillie Olsen

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Student Question

What is the setting of "I Stand Here Ironing" by Tillie Olson?

Quick answer:

The setting of "I Stand Here Ironing" is primarily at an ironing board, where the narrator reflects on her daughter's upbringing while ironing clothes. This literal setting serves as a backdrop for the narrator's memories and contemplations about her daughter's life, which span various locations and times in her mind.

Expert Answers

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The literal physical setting is indicated in the title: the entire story is told by the narrator, while she is standing there ironing clothes. Now, the story she tells ranges a bit more widely in memory, as she's talking about her daughter growing up, but the physical setting is standing in front of an ironing board.

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