One way of explaining the excellence of "A Rose for Emily" is by considering its lack of chronological order. Such a dissection of the short story initially might appear to weaken it, but this approach allows us to see Faulkner's genius at work — particularly his own, unique way of telling a story. Unlike other writers of his era, such as John Steinbeck and Ernest Hemingway, who usually narrate their stories in a strictly linear progression, Faulkner violates all chronological sequences.
Only a few specific dates are mentioned in the story, but a close reading makes it possible to assign certain sequential events. We know, for example, that Colonel Sartoris remits Miss Emily's taxes in 1894, and that he has been dead for at least ten years when she confronts the new aldermen. Likewise, we know that she dies at the age of 74. Using these facts, we can build a framework on which to hang the following chronology:
Section IV: Miss Emily is born.
Section II: She and her father ride around the town in an old, elegant carriage.
Section II: Her father dies, and for three days she refuses to acknowledge his death.
Section III: Homer Barron arrives in town and begins to court Miss Emily.
Section IV: She buys a man's silver toilet set — a mirror, brush, and comb — and men's clothing.
Section III: The town relegates her to disgrace and sends for her cousins.
Section IV: The cousins arrive, and Homer leaves town.
Section IV: Three days after the cousins leave, Homer returns.
Section III: Miss Emily buys poison at the local drug store.
Section IV: Homer disappears.
Section II: A horrible stench envelops Miss Emily's house.
Section II: Four town aldermen secretly sprinkle lime on her lawn.
