
Looking for the word count of My Oedipus Complex by Frank O’Connor? Want a quick summary, character insights, and its deeper literary meaning? You’re in the right place.
In this blog, we cover:
- The total word count of the story
- A short and simple summary
- Character breakdown
- Key literary themes
- FAQs for quick understanding
- And a free tool to count your own words!
📊 Word Count of My Oedipus Complex
The short story My Oedipus Complex by Frank O’Connor contains approximately 3,500 to 4,000 words, depending on the edition.
- Word Count: ~3,800 words
- Paragraphs: Around 35–40
- Estimated Reading Time: 15–20 minutes
This makes it a short yet powerful read — ideal for students, literature lovers, and casual readers.
📖 Summary of My Oedipus Complex
My Oedipus Complex is a humorous yet emotionally rich story told from the perspective of Larry, a curious young boy. He has a strong bond with his mother while his father is away fighting in World War I.
When the father returns home, Larry becomes jealous. He sees his father as a rival for his mother’s attention. This playful yet psychologically deep narrative mirrors Sigmund Freud’s theory of the Oedipus Complex, where a child harbors unconscious desires for the parent of the opposite sex.
Frank O’Connor beautifully captures the innocent confusion and emotional journey of a child facing change.
👨👩👦 Main Characters
- Larry – The young narrator; curious, imaginative, and slightly jealous
- Mother – Gentle and caring; gives Larry her full attention before her husband returns
- Father – A soldier; returns home to a son who barely remembers him
Each character reflects a deeper emotional layer of family dynamics, innocence, and jealousy.
🎭 Themes in My Oedipus Complex
Here are the main literary themes explored in the story:
✅ 1. Childhood Innocence vs. Adult Reality
Larry’s view of the world is innocent but limited. This contrast with adult behavior creates both humor and emotional depth.
✅ 2. Jealousy and Possessiveness
Larry sees his father as a threat to his bond with his mother. This mirrors the Freudian Oedipus Complex in a light-hearted but meaningful way.
✅ 3. Changing Family Roles
The return of the father shifts the balance of the household. Larry must adapt to new boundaries and expectations.
✅ 4. Coming of Age
As Larry experiences disappointment and confusion, he slowly begins to understand his father’s role — marking a step toward maturity.
✍️ About the Author – Frank O’Connor
Frank O’Connor was an Irish writer renowned for his vivid short stories that reflect Irish life and personal experience. His style blends humor, realism, and emotion.
Other popular stories by O’Connor include:
- Guests of the Nation
- First Confession
- The Drunkard
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
🔹What is the word count of My Oedipus Complex?
Approximately 3,800 words.
🔹 What is the main theme of the story?
Themes include childhood jealousy, family changes, and emotional growth.
🔹 Is the story based on true events?
While fictional, it’s inspired by Frank O’Connor’s own childhood, making it semi-autobiographical.
✅ Final Thoughts
My Oedipus Complex is more than just a funny story — it’s a touching exploration of how a child experiences change, love, and competition within the family. Whether you’re reading it for an assignment or for personal growth, understanding its word count, themes, and characters helps you appreciate it more deeply.
🔗 Count Your Own Words Instantly
Want to check the word count of your own writing?
👉 Use our Free Word Counter Tool to get accurate word and character counts for essays, stories, or blog posts. It’s fast, simple, and completely free!