In once upon a time by nadine gordimer How does the shift in structure from an autobiographical tale to a bedtime story affect the reader?

In "Once Upon a Time," Nadine Gordimer's shift from an autobiographical tone to a bedtime story structure serves to highlight the contrast between innocence and the harsh realities of life. This transition creates a sense of irony, as the comforting familiarity of a bedtime story is subverted by the unsettling themes of violence and fear that permeate the narrative. Readers are drawn into a false sense of security, only to confront the stark and troubling implications of the story's ending, which reinforces the impact of societal issues. Ultimately, this structural shift deepens the emotional resonance and moral weight of the tale, prompting reflection on the consequences of escapism in the face of harsh truths.