* The Setting: The story is set in a remote and isolated forest, symbolizing the isolation and immobility of the feud.
* The Characters: Ulrich and Georg, the two men who have inherited the feud from their families, are both trapped in their own hatred. They are initially driven by their desire for revenge, but as they are caught in the forest together, their attitudes begin to change.
* The Conflict: The conflict is not simply about land, but about the deep-rooted animosity between the families. Their entire lives have been shaped by this feud, and it has prevented them from ever truly knowing each other or finding common ground.
* The Twist: The story's twist, where the men are caught in the forest and their hatred is overtaken by a shared concern for survival, highlights the absurdity of their animosity. Their shared predicament forces them to recognize their common humanity.
* The Ending: The ending is ambiguous, leaving the reader to question whether the men truly find forgiveness and reconciliation, or whether their sudden realization of their predicament will ultimately be overshadowed by their ingrained hatred.
The message of "The Interlopers" is a cautionary tale about the dangers of holding onto grudges. It suggests that forgiveness and understanding are essential for overcoming such destructive forces.