Expert answers. Ester Baumgartner, Ph.D. Certified educator. Share Quote. A Rose for Emily is a short story by William Faulkner. It is narrated by a third-person narrator who is not named. Faulkner's use of first-person plural narration creates a certain distance between the character of Emily Grierson and the reader, which reinforces her mysterious nature and conceals the shocking ending. It is difficult to identify a single audience or purpose for most literary works, and William Faulkner's A Rose for Emily is no exception. First, it can be helpful to think about the story. The Symbolism of the Rose. A Rose for Emily is a published short story by William Faulkner. Set in Mississippi, the story is set in a changing Old South and revolves around the curious story of Miss Emily, a mysterious figure. As part of the title, the rose serves as an important symbol, and includes the symbolism of, 1. The Unveiling Mystery: The ending of "A Rose for Emily" is shrouded in mystery, as Faulkner masterfully crafts a narrative that blurs the boundary between reality and perception. The shocking discovery of Emily Grierson's secret in her ruined house leaves readers stunned, wondering about the depths of human nature and the consequences thereof.