While “Once Upon a Time” by Gordimer is not actually about a fairy tale it does consist of many elements similar to those of the common fairy tales told today. One example found within this story that is similar to that of a fairy tale is that there is a problem that needs to be solved. The problem that needs to be solved is that the family needs protection against thieves and attackers of the outside world. They are fearful of intruders and always seem to be pondering on better security systems. While they may not be willing to lock their family members up in the tallest tower of the kingdom they do however use razor wire as a border around their home to attempt to keep out all evil “so that there would be no way of climbing over it and no way through its tunnel without getting entangled in its fangs.” This description makes the wall seem like that of a castle which is protected by different obstacles like moats, guard animals or curtain walls. The razor wire also leads into another fairy tale element when it is depicted as dragon teeth which is a magical element found in numerous literary fantasies. The dragon symbol is very important to this story because the teeth not only elude the danger on the fence coil but the dragon itself helps to symbolize the dangers within this family’s society that they are trying to escape from. Dragons are not the only magical creatures used within this story; there is also mention of giants, elves, talking animals, witches and even fairies. For instance Gordimer compares the mother-in-law to a wise old witch. Another very obvious similarity found is that fairy tales usually begin with “once upon a time” and conclude with “happily ever after” and Gordimer also uses this outline. These terms are common language in just about every fairy tale written or told. “Happily ever after” is also constantly repeated throughout “Once Upon a Time” which I find to be very ironic seeing as