Setting: The story begins in New York City, specifically in the Bronx, where John and Lorraine, two teenage students, live. This setting plays a crucial role, highlighting the urban, often bleak, backdrop of their lives.
Characters: We are introduced to our main characters, John and Lorraine, who are both dealing with the complexities of adolescence.
* John, a quiet and introspective boy, is struggling with loneliness, social anxiety, and a strained relationship with his parents.
* Lorraine, described as "volcanic," is a more outspoken and rebellious girl who is dealing with her own family issues and the pressure to conform.
Conflict: The exposition sets up the initial conflict: John and Lorraine's search for meaning and purpose. They are both yearning for something more in their lives, and this desire fuels their actions throughout the novel.
The Pigman's Introduction: While not the central focus of the exposition, the initial interactions with Mr. Pignati, an elderly, lonely man, are introduced. This introduces a potential source of connection and escape for John and Lorraine.
Important Details:
* The opening scene: The novel begins with John and Lorraine planning a prank on their teacher, demonstrating their rebelliousness and desire to escape the mundane.
* John's inner thoughts: The reader gets a glimpse into John's loneliness and desire for connection through his internal monologues.
* The "Pigman" name: John and Lorraine discover a newspaper article mentioning a man called "The Pigman" who has a pet pig, setting the stage for their later encounter with Mr. Pignati.
Overall, the exposition of The Pigman is a slow build-up, characterized by:
* The introduction of the protagonists and their struggles.
* The establishment of the bleak urban setting.
* The hint of a possible connection with Mr. Pignati.
* The underlying theme of loneliness and the search for meaning.
The exposition sets the stage for the unfolding of the novel's themes, plot, and character development, leaving the reader intrigued and anticipating what is to come.