Day: April 14, 2024

Introduction: “The Gilded Six-Bits” by Zora Neale Hurston

“The Gilded Six-Bits” by Zora Neale Hurston was first published in 1933 as part of the Story magazine. Later, it was included in her 1935 collection Spunk. Considered one of her finest short stories, “The Gilded Six-Bits” depicts themes of love, betrayal, and redemption in Hurston’s signature style. The story celebrates the rich vernacular of African-American communities in the South, and is written with her eye for detail and understanding of human nature. “The Gilded Six Bits” offers a nuanced narrative and a portrayal of love and forgiveness that is both heartfelt and thought-provoking.

Main Events: “The Gilded Six-Bits” by Zora Neale Hurston

1. The Joys of Young Love: Joe and Missie May are a vibrant, working-class couple in Eatonville, Florida. Their love is playful and affectionate. Their Saturday ritual of Joe throwing silver dollars through the door and Missie May scrambling to collect them, followed by playful wrestling and banter, showcases their bond.
2. A Tempter Arrives: Otis D. Slemmons, a smooth-talking, gold-adorned outsider, opens an ice cream parlor, bringing an air of wealth and sophistication. Missie May, initially scoffing at him, is gradually seduced by the idea of the finer things he represents. Joe is proud to parade his beautiful wife in front of this well-dressed stranger.
3. Betrayal and Heartbreak: One Saturday night, Joe returns home early, his heart set on surprising Missie May. Instead, he finds her in bed with Slemmons. The betrayal shatters Joe’s world. He laughs, but it’s a hollow sound laced with pain. In the ensuing fight, Slemmons’ “gold” watch charm falls off, revealing it to be a cheap, gilded coin—a symbol of his deception.
4. Erosion of Trust: Though Missie May pleads for forgiveness, a chasm forms between the couple. Joe avoids physical intimacy and the playful joy that defined their marriage. Missie May’s discovery of the gilded coin emphasizes Slemmons’ falseness and the humiliation she has brought upon them. Even so, Joe refuses to let her off easy.
5. Bittersweet Hope: Missie May becomes pregnant and gives birth to Joe’s son. There is a flicker of hope that this innocent life will mend the rift, but Joe’s coldness persists. His brief interest in the baby fades, showcasing how deeply damaged he is.
6. The Final Insult: Months later, Joe goes to Orlando for supplies. He uses the gilded coin to buy candy, falsely boasting that he tricked a gullible stranger out of the fake gold piece. This cruel act exposes the depth of his resentment. Missie May, at last, understands that their once-loving marriage may be beyond repair.

Literary Devices/Narrative Devices: “The Gilded Six-Bits” by Zora Neale Hurston

Literary/Narrative Device	Example from Text
1. Setting	Description of the Negro settlement, the house, and the yard
2. Symbolism	Silver dollars thrown in the door symbolize affection and playfulness
3. Imagery	Description of Missie May bathing and the scene of the front yard and porch
4. Foreshadowing	Joe’s complaint of pains in his back foreshadows his illness later in the story
5. Irony	Joe’s belief that he’s protecting Missie May from a robber, when it’s Slemmons
6. Characterization	Missie May’s actions and dialogue reveal her complex feelings and motivations
7. Dialogue	Conversations between Joe and Missie May, as well as between other characters
8. Conflict	Internal conflict within Joe regarding his feelings for Missie May and Slemmons
9. Flashback	Recollection of Joe and Missie May’s Saturday routines
10. Foil	Joe and Slemmons serve as foils to each other, highlighting their differences
11. Motif	Themes of love, betrayal, and forgiveness are recurring motifs throughout the story
12. Alliteration	“Missie May made two or three unsuccessful grabs at the pan”
13. Hyperbole	Missie May exaggerating about Joe’s appearance compared to Slemmons
14. Personification	“The great belt on the wheel of Time slipped and eternity stood still”
15. Allegory	Joe’s struggle with Slemmons can be interpreted allegorically as a moral battle
16. Suspense	Tension builds as Joe discovers Slemmons in the bedroom and confronts him
17. Tone	Varied tones throughout the story, from playful banter to intense confrontation
18. Theme	Themes of trust, betrayal, forgiveness, and the complexities of love and marriage
19. Metaphor	“Joe’s fury overrode his intentions and he grabbed at Slemmons like a battering ram”
20. Parallelism	Parallel structure in Joe and Missie May’s conversations, reflecting their bond

Characterization: “The Gilded Six-Bits” by Zora Neale Hurston

Major Characters:

1. Missie May:
   • Characterization: Missie May is portrayed as a vibrant and affectionate wife who enjoys playful banter with her husband, Joe. She is depicted as loving and devoted, but also susceptible to temptation and deception.
   • References: Missie May is described bathing in the bedroom, engaging in mock fights with Joe, and expressing her desires and fears throughout the story. Her emotional turmoil is evident when she cries after the confrontation with Slemmons.
2. Joe Banks:
   • Characterization: Joe is depicted as a hardworking and devoted husband who loves his wife deeply. He is portrayed as playful and affectionate, but also capable of jealousy and anger.
   • References: Joe’s affection for Missie May is demonstrated through his playful gestures, such as throwing silver dollars into the house. His protective nature is evident when he confronts Slemmons and later when he stands by Missie May during her illness.
3. Otis D. Slemmons:
   • Characterization: Slemmons is depicted as a deceptive and manipulative outsider who disrupts the harmony of Joe and Missie May’s marriage. He presents himself as wealthy and charming but is ultimately revealed to be fraudulent.
   • References: Slemmons’ deceptive nature is highlighted through his interactions with Joe and Missie May. His attempt to seduce Missie May and his eventual confrontation with Joe demonstrate his manipulative character.

Minor Characters:

1. Joe’s Mother:
   • Characterization: Joe’s mother is portrayed as a concerned and opinionated figure who expresses skepticism about Missie May’s character and their marriage.
   • References: She expresses her doubts about Missie May and her concerns about Joe’s marriage, indicating her protective nature towards her son.
2. Candy Store Clerk:
   • Characterization: The candy store clerk is depicted as a friendly and curious character who engages in casual conversation with Joe.
   • References: The clerk’s interactions with Joe in the candy store provide insight into the community’s perception of Joe and his experiences.

Writing Style: “The Gilded Six-Bits” by Zora Neale Hurston

Writing Style Feature	Description	References
Dialect and Vernacular	Hurston’s writing style is characterized by the use of African American Vernacular English (AAVE) and dialect, which adds authenticity and richness to the dialogue and narrative.	Examples include: Dialogue between characters such as Missie May and Joe, as well as descriptions of settings and events.
Imagery	Hurston employs vivid imagery to paint detailed pictures of characters, settings, and events, allowing readers to immerse themselves fully in the world of the story.	Examples include: Descriptions of the characters’ physical appearance, the yard and house, and the atmosphere during key moments like the confrontation with Slemmons.
Symbolism	Symbolism is used to convey deeper meanings and themes throughout the story. Hurston often employs symbolic elements that represent larger ideas or concepts.	Examples include: The silver dollars symbolizing Joe’s affection for Missie May, the gilded six-bits representing deception and false appearances, and the act of bathing symbolizing vulnerability and intimacy.
Dialogue	Hurston’s dialogue is authentic and reflective of the characters’ personalities, social status, and cultural background. The dialogue drives the plot forward and reveals insights into the characters’ thoughts and feelings.	Examples include: Conversations between Joe and Missie May, as well as interactions with other characters like Slemmons and Joe’s mother.
Irony	Irony is employed throughout the story to create contrasts between appearance and reality, often leading to unexpected twists and revelations.	Examples include: The irony of Slemmons’s deception being revealed by a gilded six-bit, and the contrast between appearances and reality in Joe and Missie May’s relationship.

Main Themes: “The Gilded Six-Bits” by Zora Neale Hurston

1. Deception and Betrayal
   • The theme of deception and betrayal is central to the story, particularly embodied in the character of Otis D. Slemmons, who deceives both Joe and Missie May with his gilded appearance and false promises.
   • Reference: When Joe discovers Slemmons’s deception, he recounts, “Ah hauled off and knocked ‘im down and took his old four-bits away from ‘im.”
2. Appearance vs. Reality
   • Hurston explores the dichotomy between appearance and reality, highlighting how things may not always be as they seem. Characters like Slemmons use superficial appearances to mask their true intentions and character.
   • Reference: The gilded six-bits serves as a symbol of false appearances, as Joe realizes the truth behind Slemmons’s charm and riches.
3. Love and Forgiveness
   • Love and forgiveness are recurring themes in the story, particularly in Joe and Missie May’s relationship. Despite the challenges they face, their love endures, and they ultimately find a way to reconcile and move forward.
   • Reference: After the betrayal is revealed, Missie May expresses her love for Joe, saying, “Ah love you so hard and Ah know you don’t love me no mo’.” However, Joe’s actions and forgiveness ultimately demonstrate his enduring love for Missie May.
4. Redemption and Renewal
   • The story also explores themes of redemption and renewal, as characters confront their mistakes and strive to rebuild their lives and relationships. Despite the hardships they face, there is hope for a brighter future.
   • Reference: The birth of Joe and Missie May’s child symbolizes a new beginning and the possibility of redemption, as they come together to embrace their growing family and overcome past difficulties.

Literary Theories and Interpretations of “The Gilded Six-Bits” by Zora Neale Hurston

Literary Theory	Interpretation
Marxist Criticism	Hurston’s story can be analyzed through a Marxist lens, highlighting themes of social class and economic inequality. The characters’ interactions with wealth, such as Slemmons’s deception and Joe’s reaction to it, reflect broader societal power dynamics.
Feminist Criticism	A feminist reading of the story could focus on Missie May’s agency and autonomy within her marriage. Despite Joe’s betrayal, Missie May’s actions and decisions demonstrate her strength and resilience in navigating complex gender roles and expectations.
Psychoanalytic Criticism	Through a psychoanalytic lens, the characters’ motivations and desires can be explored. Joe’s confrontation with Slemmons may represent his subconscious fears and insecurities, while Missie May’s reaction to the betrayal could be analyzed in terms of her emotional conflicts and attachments.
Postcolonial Criticism	Postcolonial analysis of the story may examine themes of cultural identity and colonial influence within the African American community. The characters’ encounters with deception and betrayal can be seen as reflections of broader colonial legacies and power struggles.
Formalist Criticism	From a formalist perspective, attention may be drawn to Hurston’s use of language, imagery, and symbolism to convey meaning. The gilded six-bits, for example, serves as a powerful symbol of deception and false appearances, enriching the story’s thematic depth and resonance.

Topics, Questions and Thesis Statements about “The Gilded Six-Bits” by Zora Neale Hurston

Topic 1: Deception and Appearance

• Question: How does Hurston use gold and gilded objects to symbolize deception and the pursuit of shallow wealth?
• Thesis Statement: In “The Gilded Six-Bits,” Hurston employs the symbol of the gilded coins, and other references to gold, to illustrate the destructive power of appearances and the fallacy of equating wealth with happiness.

Topic 2: Forgiveness and Redemption

• Question: Does Missie May’s betrayal fully negate her love for Joe? How does Hurston depict the process of forgiveness and the restoration of their marriage?
• Thesis Statement: While Missie May’s actions cause deep pain, “The Gilded Six-Bits” suggests that love can endure transgression, with Hurston portraying forgiveness as a complex and transformative journey.

Topic 3: Gender Roles and Community

• Question: How are the expectations for men and women depicted within the story’s community? Does Hurston reinforce or challenge these roles?
• Thesis Statement: “The Gilded Six-Bits” reveals the constraints of traditional gender roles in the community, yet hints at a possibility for a more dynamic and equitable relationship through the evolution of Joe and Missie May’s marriage.

Topic 4: Hurston’s Use of Dialect

• Question: What is the effect of Hurston’s use of dialect? How does it contribute to the story’s authenticity and impact?
• Thesis Statement: Hurston’s use of dialect in “The Gilded Six-Bits” creates an immersive literary experience, celebrating the richness of African-American vernacular while also conveying the specific cultural landscape of the story.

Short Questions/Answers: “The Gilded Six-Bits” by Zora Neale Hurston

• Question 1: Is Joe’s forgiveness of Missie May a sign of genuine restoration of their relationship or simply a surrender to community expectations?
• Answer: Hurston leaves the question of Joe’s forgiveness intentionally ambiguous. While their playful interaction at the end hints at reconciliation (“Missie May, you ain’t gointuh do me dat way after all?”), the power dynamic has undeniably shifted. Joe’s final gesture of casting away the gilded coins can be interpreted as a rejection of shallow temptations, but it also leaves them without their playful ritual based on shared wealth. The story suggests a potential for forgiveness and a changed marriage, but whether it marks genuine healing or simply a pragmatic compromise remains open to interpretation.
• Question 2: Beyond the issue of betrayal, how does the lure of Otis Slemmons expose flaws in Joe and Missie May’s relationship?
• Answer: Slemmons’ flashy appearance and promises of an easy, glamorous life reveal Missie May’s dissatisfaction with the simplicity of her routine with Joe (“She knew… [Otis] was much younger than Joe”). However, Joe’s own pride and possessiveness are also emphasized as he obsessively guards the gold coins, inadvertently fueling Missie May’s sense of being bound by material objects. Their initial happiness is fragile, lacking a deeper emotional connection that could make them resilient against external temptations.
• Question 3: Does Hurston’s use of dialect condemn or empower the characters and their community?
• Answer: Hurston’s use of dialect is multifaceted. It adds richness and authenticity to the characters’ voices, preserving a unique linguistic heritage (“Ah’m gointuh see whut it is youse skeered to show me”). Yet, it could be argued the dialect also risks perpetuating stereotypes for an outside audience. The story raises a complex conversation about the power of language to either uplift or contribute to the limitations placed upon marginalized groups.

Literary Works Similar to “The Gilded Six-Bits” by Zora Neale Hurston

1. Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston – If you haven’t already, delving into more of Hurston’s work is a great idea. This novel is one of her most famous works, exploring themes of love, independence, and self-discovery.
2. The Color Purple by Alice Walker – This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel tells the story of Celie, a black woman in the South, as she navigates through abuse, love, and finding her voice.
3. The Street by Ann Petry – Set in 1940s Harlem, this novel follows the struggles of Lutie Johnson as she tries to provide a better life for her son while facing poverty and racism.
4. Passing by Nella Larsen – This novella explores racial identity and the complexities of passing as white in 1920s Harlem.
5. The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman by Ernest J. Gaines – This novel follows the life of Jane Pittman, a former slave who lives through the Civil Rights Movement, offering a unique perspective on American history.

Suggested Readings: “The Gilded Six-Bits” by Zora Neale Hurston

Books:

• Hurston, Zora Neale. The Complete Stories. Harper Perennial Modern Classics, 1996.
• This collection includes “The Gilded Six-Bits” along with other short stories by Zora Neale Hurston, providing a comprehensive look at her storytelling style and themes.
• Smith, Valerie. Zora Neale Hurston: A Literary Biography. University of Illinois Press, 2007.
• Valerie Smith’s biography offers insights into Hurston’s life and influences, shedding light on the context in which “The Gilded Six-Bits” was written.

Articles:

• Davis, Thadious M. “Zora Neale Hurston: ‘A Negro Way of Saying’.” Black American Literature Forum, vol. 14, no. 2, 1980, pp. 69-75. JSTOR, www.jstor.org/stable/2904283.
• This article analyzes Hurston’s unique narrative style and its significance in “The Gilded Six-Bits” and other works, exploring how she incorporates African American vernacular and folklore.
• Davis, Doris. “‘De Talkin’ Game’: The Creation of Psychic Space in Selected Short Fiction of Zora Neale Hurston.” Tulsa Studies in Women’s Literature, vol. 26, no. 2, 2007, pp. 269–86. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/20455329. Accessed 14 Apr. 2024.

Websites:

• Zora Neale Hurston Official Website. www.zoranealehurston.com
• This official website provides biographical information about Zora Neale Hurston, as well as resources related to her works, including “The Gilded Six-Bits.”
• Modern American Poetry: Zora Neale Hurston www.english.illinois.edu/maps/poets/g_l/hurston/hurston.htm

Introduction: “The Life You Save May Be Your Own” by Flannery O’Connor

“The Life You Save May Be Your Own” by Flannery O’Connor was first published in 1953 in the magazine Sewanee Review and later included in her 1955 short story collection A Good Man Is Hard to Find. This Southern Gothic tale is a masterpiece of dark humor and explores themes of manipulation, self-interest, and the complexities of human connection. The story centers around the twisted relationship between a manipulative drifter, Mr. Shiftlet, and a lonely, disabled young woman named Lucynell Crater. O’Connor’s prose is sharp and her grotesque characters are both compelling and deeply unsettling, making for a story that lingers long after reading.

Main Events in “The Life You Save May Be Your Own”  by Flannery O’Connor

1. Introduction of Mr. Shiftlet: The narrative opens with the arrival of Mr. Shiftlet, a mysterious one-armed drifter, who approaches the old woman and her daughter at their secluded home.
2. Initial Impressions: O’Connor vividly describes the appearance of Mr. Shiftlet, noting his missing arm and peculiar demeanor, setting the tone for the unfolding events.
3. Conversation with the Old Woman: Mr. Shiftlet engages in an enigmatic conversation with the old woman, discussing topics such as the sunset and the complexity of human existence.
4. Offer to Work: Mr. Shiftlet offers his services to the old woman in exchange for food and lodging, sparking a negotiation that hints at his underlying motives.
5. Transformation of the Property: As Mr. Shiftlet begins working on repairs around the property, O’Connor portrays his actions as catalysts for physical and metaphorical transformations.
6. Teaching Lucynell: Mr. Shiftlet’s interaction with Lucynell, the deaf daughter, highlights his role as a catalyst for personal growth and communication breakthroughs.
7. Marriage Proposal: The old woman proposes a marriage between Mr. Shiftlet and Lucynell, revealing her desire for security and companionship.
8. Marriage and Departure: Mr. Shiftlet agrees to marry Lucynell, leading to a courthouse wedding and their departure for Mobile, marking a significant turning point in the narrative.
9. Encounter with the Hitch-Hiker: Mr. Shiftlet’s encounter with a hitch-hiker serves as a pivotal moment of reflection, challenging his perceptions and prompting introspection.
10. Conflict and Resolution: The hitch-hiker’s abrupt departure and the impending storm symbolize the internal conflict and eventual resolution within Mr. Shiftlet’s character, culminating in a moment of profound revelation.

Literary Devices in “The Life You Save May Be Your Own”  by Flannery O’Connor

Literary Device	Reference from the Story
1. Allegory	Mr. Shiftlet’s journey symbolizes a search for meaning and redemption in life.
2. Alliteration	“She slid her chair almost to the edge of the porch.”
3. Allusion	Reference to the biblical concept of “the wages of sin” when Mr. Shiftlet mentions the sin of lying.
4. Foreshadowing	The storm approaching as Mr. Shiftlet drives away hints at impending conflict or resolution.
5. Hyperbole	Mr. Shiftlet’s exaggerated claim that he would not marry the Duchess of Windsor unless he could treat her to a luxurious hotel reflects his pride and vanity.
6. Imagery	Description of the sunset, characters’ appearances, and the landscape creates vivid mental images for the reader.
7. Irony	The old woman’s belief that Mr. Shiftlet is a good man contrasts with his deceptive nature and questionable intentions.
8. Metaphor	Mr. Shiftlet’s comparison of the human spirit to an automobile emphasizes the transient nature of life and the pursuit of personal desires.
9. Motif	The motif of redemption and moral ambiguity is evident throughout the story, particularly in Mr. Shiftlet’s actions and decisions.
10. Onomatopoeia	“Burrttddt ddbirrrttdt” – Lucynell’s attempt to say “bird” mimics the sound of a bird, highlighting her innocence and Mr. Shiftlet’s influence.
11. Personification	The description of the storm preparing without thunder personifies nature as deliberate and ominous.
12. Repetition	The repetition of Lucynell’s actions, such as clapping her hands and saying “Burrttddt ddbirrrttdt,” emphasizes her innocence and the impact of Mr. Shiftlet’s influence.
13. Satire	O’Connor’s portrayal of Mr. Shiftlet’s character satirizes the hypocrisy and moral decay present in society.
14. Simile	“His eyes were like two steel spikes.” – Mr. Shiftlet’s eyes are compared to steel spikes, emphasizing their intensity and piercing gaze.
15. Symbolism	The broken-down car symbolizes both decay and potential renewal, reflecting the characters’ situations and inner conflicts.
16. Theme	Themes of redemption, deception, and the search for meaning permeate the story, influencing character actions and plot developments.
17. Tone	O’Connor’s tone oscillates between dark humor and poignant reflection, highlighting the story’s complex themes and character dynamics.
18. Understatement	The old woman’s casual offer for Mr. Shiftlet to marry Lucynell belies the gravity of the situation, underscoring the story’s themes of manipulation and desperation.
19. Verbal Irony	Mr. Shiftlet’s claim that he values an “innocent woman” while manipulating Lucynell and the old woman demonstrates verbal irony.
20. Juxtaposition	The contrast between Mr. Shiftlet’s physical disability and his deceptive behavior creates a juxtaposition that underscores the complexity of his character.

Characterization in “The Life You Save May Be Your Own”  by Flannery O’Connor

Major Characters:

1. Mr. Shiftlet:
   • Description: Mr. Shiftlet is portrayed as a mysterious and manipulative drifter with a troubled past. He is physically described as gaunt, with a steel-trap jaw and a slicked-back hair.
   • Actions: Mr. Shiftlet’s actions reveal his deceptive nature, as he manipulates the old woman and her daughter for his own gain, ultimately abandoning them.
   • Reference: His interactions with the old woman and her daughter, his conversations about marriage and morality, and his departure from the farm showcase his characterization.
2. The Old Woman:
   • Description: The old woman is depicted as shrewd but somewhat naive, believing Mr. Shiftlet to be a good man despite his dubious behavior.
   • Actions: She offers Mr. Shiftlet a place to stay and even suggests marriage between him and her daughter, showcasing her desperation for companionship for her daughter.
   • Reference: Her conversations with Mr. Shiftlet, her observations of his behavior, and her emotional reaction when he leaves highlight her characterization.

Minor Characters:

1. Lucynell Crater (the Daughter):
   • Description: Lucynell is portrayed as a mute and innocent young woman, dependent on her mother for care and companionship.
   • Actions: Lucynell’s actions, such as her attempts to communicate with Mr. Shiftlet and her compliance with her mother’s decisions, illustrate her innocence and vulnerability.
   • Reference: Her interactions with Mr. Shiftlet, her reactions to the events unfolding around her, and her ultimate fate contribute to her characterization.
2. The Boy at The Hot Spot:
   • Description: The boy at The Hot Spot is a minor character who briefly interacts with Mr. Shiftlet during a stop on his journey.
   • Actions: His brief conversation with Mr. Shiftlet reveals his admiration for Lucynell’s appearance and his fleeting encounter with the drifter.
   • Reference: The interaction between the boy and Mr. Shiftlet at The Hot Spot and the boy’s brief observation of Lucynell contribute to his characterization.

Major Themes in “The Life You Save May Be Your Own”  by Flannery O’Connor

1. Deception and Manipulation: Mr. Shiftlet is a master of deception. He feigns decency and morality to exploit the vulnerable Lucynell and her mother for his own gain. He presents himself as a righteous handyman but in reality craves their car and ultimately abandons the disabled Lucynell at a diner.
2. Grotesque Characters and the Search for Meaning: O’Connor frequently utilizes the grotesque to reflect distortions of spirit. Shiftlet, with his missing arm and twisted morality, embodies this. The story offers no easy answers; O’Connor implies a spiritual emptiness within her characters, forcing readers to confront their own potential for darkness.
3. False Piety and Misplaced Faith: Mrs. Crater, blinded by a shallow sense of Christian duty, falls for Shiftlet’s charade. Her faith rests on outward appearances rather than true goodness. This misdirected faith leads her into misjudging Shiftlet and ultimately results in her daughter’s misfortune.
4. The Illusion of Freedom and Selfishness: Shiftlet craves freedom but finds it illusory. Despite leaving the Craters, his self-absorption prevents any true escape. He drifts on, bound by his own self-interest. The story questions true freedom, hinting that liberation might only be found in recognizing our interconnectedness and responsibilities toward others.

Writing Style in “The Life You Save May Be Your Own”  by Flannery O’Connor

Literary Theories and Interpretation of “The Life You Save May Be Your Own”  by Flannery O’Connor

Literary Theory	Interpretation of “The Life You Save May Be Your Own”
Formalism / New Criticism	* Closely examine the text itself.* Focus on literary devices like symbolism (the car, the sunset, the title), irony, and the grotesque to understand how meaning is constructed within the story’s structure.
Reader-Response Theory	Emphasizes the reader’s role in creating meaning. Readers’ diverse experiences will lead to varied interpretations about manipulation, disability representation, and the ambiguous ending.
Psychoanalytic Theory	Explore characters’ unconscious desires and motivations. Analyze Shiftlet’s drive for self-preservation, Mrs. Crater’s misguided attempts at charity, and Lucynell’s childlike innocence as windows into their psyches.
Feminist Theory	Examine power dynamics and the representation of women. Consider how Mrs. Crater and Lucynell are limited by societal expectations. Does Lucynell, despite her disability, offer a form of resistance or subversion?
Southern Gothic	Highlight elements of decay, grotesque characters, and dark themes. Analyze how the story subverts traditional Southern tropes and uses its setting to critique social and moral decline.
Religious/Theological	Explore O’Connor’s Catholic faith and its influence. Examine the distorted presence of religious themes, the failure of characters to find true grace, and the bleak ending as a commentary on spiritual emptiness.

Important Note: This is just a starting point! Each theory offers a specific lens through which to analyze O’Connor’s complex and disturbing short story. Depending on which theory you choose, you can delve deeper to uncover different insights about the characters, themes, and overall meaning of the work.

Topics, Questions and Thesis Statements about “The Life You Save May Be Your Own”  by Flannery O’Connor

Short Questions/Answers about “The Life You Save May Be Your Own”  by Flannery O’Connor

Complex Questions	Answers
How does O’Connor use Mr. Shiftlet’s physical appearance to foreshadow his deceptive nature?	O’Connor creates a dissonant image of Mr. Shiftlet. His missing arm could signify vulnerability, yet his description evokes predatory characteristics (long-legged, bony, sun-bleached eyes). This foreshadows his ability to exploit others’ perceptions of him. (See the provided passage referencing his description).
Mrs. Crater fixates on external signs of piety; how does this reflect a deeper failure within her own understanding of faith?	Mrs. Crater equates appearances with morality. She is easily swayed by Shiftlet’s outward religiosity, ignoring his self-serving nature. This exposes a superficial understanding of faith, where actions matter less than appearances. (Refer to her concerns about heaven and being married to a church member).
Does O’Connor offer any possibility of redemption for her characters, or is the world depicted wholly devoid of spiritual grace?	The story’s ending is ambiguous. While Shiftlet’s call to God could be genuine despair, it’s equally likely to be another selfish act. Mrs. Crater and Lucynell are left behind, their fates uncertain. This leaves open whether salvation is possible in such a bleak world.
Analyze how the grotesque elements of the story highlight the characters’ inner turmoil and the potential for darkness within seemingly ordinary people.	The grotesque isn’t just about physical appearance in O’Connor’s work. Shiftlet’s moral deformity and Mrs. Crater’s twisted faith mirror the decaying setting. This suggests that even ‘normal’ people harbor the potential for darkness, amplified in this harsh environment.
How does O’Connor challenge or subvert stereotypical depictions of disability in her portrayal of Lucynell?	While Lucynell is vulnerable, she’s not solely a victim. Her ability to learn “bird,” her defiance at the diner, and the open ending suggest a strength beneath a simplistic ‘disabled’ label. O’Connor hints at complexity, challenging pity-based views.

Literary Works Similar to “The Life You Save May Be Your Own”  by Flannery O’Connor

1. “A Good Man Is Hard to Find” by Flannery O’Connor:
   • Another short story by O’Connor, it explores themes of moral ambiguity, redemption, and the grotesque in a Southern Gothic setting.
2. “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson:
   • This short story examines the dark side of human nature and societal conformity in a small town through the annual ritual of a lottery with a shocking twist.
3. “Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?” by Joyce Carol Oates:
   • Oates’ short story delves into the complexities of adolescence, identity, and the dangers of naivety when a teenage girl encounters a charismatic yet sinister stranger.
4. “A Rose for Emily” by William Faulkner:
   • Faulkner’s classic short story explores themes of isolation, decay, and the Southern Gothic tradition through the enigmatic life of Emily Grierson and the secrets of her family.
5. “The Tell-Tale Heart” by Edgar Allan Poe:
   • This psychological thriller delves into the mind of a narrator who becomes obsessed with the “vulture eye” of an old man and commits a gruesome murder, grappling with guilt and paranoia.

Suggested Readings about/on “The Life You Save May Be Your Own”  by Flannery O’Connor

Books:

• Elie, Paul. The Life You Save May Be Your Own: An American Pilgrimage. Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 2004. (In-depth exploration of four major Catholic authors, including O’Connor, tracing their influence and themes within the American cultural landscape.)
• O’Connor, Flannery. Mystery and Manners: Occasional Prose. Edited by Sally and Robert Fitzgerald. Farrar, Straus, and Giroux, 1970. (A collection of O’Connor’s essays and lectures, offering insight into her writing philosophy, views on faith, and the Southern Gothic tradition.)
• Brinkmeyer, Robert H. Jr. The Art and Vision of Flannery O’Connor. Louisiana State University Press, 1989. (Analyzes O’Connor’s techniques, symbolism, and major themes across her short fiction.)

Articles:

• Miller, Audrey I. “Chaos and conformity: The systematic grotesque of Flannery O’Connor.” (1982).  (Examines how O’Connor utilizes the grotesque for religious and social commentary.)
• Westling, Louise. “Flannery O’Connor’s Mothers and Daughters.” Twentieth Century Literature, vol. 24, no. 4, 1978, pp. 510-522. JSTOR (Focuses on motherhood and female characters in O’Connor’s work, offering a feminist perspective)

Websites:

• The Flannery O’Connor Review: (https://www.facebook.com/flannery.review/?locale=pa_IN). A scholarly journal dedicated to O’Connor’s work, offering critical essays and analysis.
• Encyclopedia of Georgia: New Georgia Encyclopedia (https://www.georgiaencyclopedia.org/). Provides a biographical overview of O’Connor’s life and literary context.

Representative Quotes from “The Life You Save May Be Your Own”  by Flannery O’Connor

1. “He had long black slick hair that hung flat from a part in the middle to beyond the tips of his ears on either side.”
2. “‘Lady,’ he said, ‘lemme tell you something. There’s one of these doctors in Atlanta that’s taken a knife and cut the human heart – the human heart,’ he repeated, leaning forward, ‘out of a man’s chest and held it in his hand,’ and he held his hand out, palm up, as if it were slightly weighted with the human heart.”
3. “Why, if he was to take that knife and cut into every corner of it, he still wouldn’t know no more than you or me. What you want to bet?”
4. “Lady, people don’t care how they lie.”
5. “‘I’m a man,’ he said with a sullen dignity, ‘even if I ain’t a whole one. I got,’ he said, tapping his knuckles on the floor to emphasize the immensity of what he was going to say, ‘a moral intelligence!'”
6. “‘What is a man?'”
7. “‘A body and a spirit,’ he repeated. ‘The body, lady, is like a house: it don’t go anywhere; but the spirit, lady, is like an automobile: always on the move, always . . .'”
8. “‘You go to the devil!’ he cried. ‘My old woman is a flea bag and yours is a stinking pole cat!'”

Introduction: “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love” by Raymond Carver

“What We Talk About When We Talk About Love” by Raymond Carver was first published in his 1981 short story collection of the same name. This influential work solidified Carver’s reputation as a master of minimalist fiction. His style is characterized by unadorned prose that nonetheless resonates with deep emotional impact. Carver’s stories focus on the minutiae of everyday life, exposing the profound complexities of human connection and the elusive nature of love. His characters often wrestle with personal challenges and unfulfilled yearnings, their conversations revealing the subtle interplay of humor, vulnerability, and unspoken truths.

Main Events: “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love” by Raymond Carver !

Literary Devices: “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love” by Raymond Carver

Literary/Narrative Device	Quotation	Definition
Allusion	“If I could come back again in a different life, a different time and all, you know what? I’d like to come back as a knight.”	Reference to knights and armor, implying a desire for protection or safety.
Characterization	“Mel McGinnis is a cardiologist, and sometimes that gives him the right.”	Description or portrayal of characters’ personalities, traits, and motivations.
Dialogue	“How does that sound?” “Sounds fine to me.” “Eat or not eat. Or keep drinking. I could head right on out into the sunset.”	Conversations between characters revealing their thoughts, emotions, and relationships.
Flashback	“Then Terri said, ‘He beat me up one night. He dragged me around the living room by my ankles.'”	Recounting of past events, particularly Terri’s experience with her ex-lover.
Foreshadowing	“Mel’s discussion about the old couple involved in a car wreck hints at themes of love and mortality.”	Hinting at future events or themes, such as the exploration of love and mortality in the story.
Imagery	“Sunlight filled the kitchen from the big window behind the sink.”	Vivid descriptions that create mental images, such as the sunlight filling the kitchen.
Irony	“Terri’s comment about Mel always having love on his mind juxtaposed with their discussion on the complexities of love.”	Contrast between what is expected and what actually happens, highlighting the complexity of love.
Metaphor	“Love is compared to being on a honeymoon and to physical and sentimental aspects.”	Figurative comparison between two unlike things, such as comparing love to a honeymoon.
Motif	“Love is a recurring theme throughout the story.”	A recurring element or idea, in this case, love, which appears repeatedly throughout the narrative.
Parallelism	“Comparisons between the old couple in the car wreck and the main characters’ relationships.”	Similarities drawn between two or more elements, in this case, the experiences of different couples.
Personification	“The sunlight in the kitchen is described as a presence.”	Giving human qualities or characteristics to non-human entities, such as the sunlight being described as a presence.
Repetition	“Terri repeats her assertion that Ed loved her, emphasizing her belief in his love.”	Repeating words or phrases for emphasis, such as Terri emphasizing her belief in Ed’s love.
Satire	“Mel’s sarcastic remarks about marriage and his ex-wife.”	Use of humor, irony, or ridicule to criticize aspects of society or human behavior, such as Mel’s remarks about marriage.
Setting	“The story takes place in Mel’s kitchen, providing a backdrop for the characters’ conversations.”	The time and place in which a story occurs, setting the stage for the narrative and influencing the characters’ actions.
Symbolism	“The gin symbolizes the characters’ emotions and the progression of the discussion.”	The use of symbols to represent ideas or concepts beyond their literal meaning, such as gin representing emotions and discourse.
Theme	“The story explores themes of love, mortality, and the complexities of human relationships.”	Central ideas or messages explored in a literary work, such as love, mortality, and complex relationships in this story.
Tone	“The tone shifts between serious discussions and lighthearted banter, reflecting the characters’ emotions.”	The author’s attitude or perspective toward the subject matter, conveyed through the language and style of the narrative.
Understatement	“Mel’s casual remark about the old couple’s injuries belies the severity of their situation.”	Deliberate representation of something as less important or serious than it actually is, such as downplaying the couple’s injuries.
Verbal Irony	“Mel’s toast to ‘true love’ contrasts with the complex relationships discussed in the story.”	A contrast between what is said and what is meant, such as Mel’s toast to true love despite the discussion on complex relationships.
Wit	“Terri’s humor and banter with Mel add levity to the conversation.”	Clever and humorous remarks or dialogue that add entertainment or amusement to the narrative.

Characterization: “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love” by Raymond Carver

Main Characters

• Mel McGinnis: A cardiologist and Terri’s husband. Mel is the most vocal of the group, dominating the conversation. His initial pronouncements on love sound knowledgeable and confident, but reveal themselves as increasingly confused and self-contradictory. He embodies the struggle to articulate what love truly means despite a veneer of knowledge about the physical heart.
• Terri: Mel’s wife. Terri offers a more pragmatic, darker view of love. Her central story revolves around Ed, an abusive ex-boyfriend. Despite the violence Ed inflicted, Terri sees his actions as a form of true love. Her understanding underscores the potential for self-destructive misinterpretations of the concept.
• Nick: The narrator. Nick is mostly an observer, but he offers insights and questions the others’ perspectives. He seems more reflective and less certain than the others, hinting that his own views on love are in flux.
• Laura: Nick’s wife. Laura is the least developed of the characters, but her occasional interjections and side conversations with Nick provide a balance against the intensity of Mel and Terri’s views.

Key Points About Characterization

• Ambiguity: Carver’s characters lack clear definitions. They are presented through dialogue and limited actions. There’s no inner monologue to unpack their motivations, leaving the reader to form interpretations.
• Minimalism: Carver’s signature style appears in the characterization too. There are no lengthy descriptions or backstories. We learn about the characters primarily through what they say and do in the limited time frame of the story.
• Contrasting Views on Love: Each character presents a distinct philosophy of love. Mel vacillates between grand ideals and cynicism. Terri embraces a harmful attachment to a twisted idea of love. Nick and Laura seem less assertive but likely question the extremes presented to them.

Thematic Implications of Characters

• The Difficulty of Defining Love: The characters’ struggle to understand and clearly articulate love mirrors the reader’s own experience. The story forces us to confront the slippery nature of love, and that there’s no single, satisfying definition.
• The Gap Between Ideal and Reality: The characters grapple with the disconnect between their idealized notions of love and the messier, more troubling reality of lived experiences.
• Subjectivity in Relationships: Each character defines love according to their personal experiences, highlighting the individual nature of romantic attachment and understanding.

Major Themes: “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love” by Raymond Carver

1. The Ambiguity of Love: Carver’s core theme is that a single, clear definition of love remains elusive. Mel, despite his self-proclaimed expertise as a cardiologist, stumbles and revises his views on love throughout the story. Terri believes her abusive relationship with Ed was based on a twisted form of love. Meanwhile, Nick and Laura’s young love seems less certain when contrasted with the others. This lack of clear definition reflects the complex, shifting concept of love in real life.
2. Love and Violence: Terri’s disturbingly persistent belief in Ed’s abusive actions as proof of his love highlights the potential for a twisted connection between love and violence. The story hints that even “real love” can harbor dangerous currents of possessiveness, control, or even outright harm. This challenges idealistic, romantic views of love, suggesting it has a much darker side.
3. The Challenge of Communication: Miscommunication lies at the heart of the narrative. While all the characters speak about love, they seem to mean very different things. Their anecdotes and arguments often miss or contradict each other, showing how difficult it is to articulate personal experiences of love. Their inability to bridge this conversational gap hints at wider struggles with emotional communication and true connection within relationships.
4. Blindness to Others’ Experiences: The story’s characters become locked into their own definitions of love, disregarding or misinterpreting the experiences of others. Terri cannot comprehend why Mel sees Ed as abusive. Mel fails to recognize Terri’s underlying need for her past relationship to be validated as ‘love.’ This blindness to perspectives beyond their own underscores how love, with its deeply personal nature, can make true empathy very difficult.

Writing Style: “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love” by Raymond Carver

Raymond Carver’s “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love” is a quintessential example of literary minimalism. His writing is characterized by spare, unadorned language and a focus on surface-level details and dialogue. Sentences are short and direct, with a conversational tone mimicing real-life speech. For example, instead of describing the characters’ emotions, Carver might write, “Mel refilled his glass,” leaving the reader to infer Mel’s state of mind.

This minimalist style creates an emotional distance for the reader. Details of the characters’ appearance or inner thoughts are largely absent. We primarily learn about them through their dialogue, forcing us to decode their words and actions to form our own interpretations about their motivations and beliefs. This lack of authorial guidance mirrors the ambiguity of the story’s central theme – the difficulty of understanding love itself.

Literary Theories and Interpretation of “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love” by Raymond Carver

Literary Theory / Interpretation	Examples from “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love”
Formalism	Analyzing the story’s structure, language, and style.
	Examining Carver’s use of concise dialogue and minimalistic prose to convey complex emotions and relationships.
Marxism	Interpreting the story through the lens of social class and power dynamics.
	Analyzing how the characters’ backgrounds and professions influence their perspectives on love.
Psychoanalytic Criticism	Exploring the characters’ subconscious desires and motivations.
	Investigating the impact of past relationships and traumas on their current behavior and attitudes towards love.
Feminist Theory	Examining the portrayal of gender roles and dynamics in the story.
	Analyzing how female characters like Terri navigate relationships and assert themselves in a male-dominated society.
Reader-Response Criticism	Considering how different readers interpret and respond to the story.
	Exploring how individual experiences and perspectives shape readers’ understanding of love and relationships in the narrative.
Postcolonial Criticism	Investigating the story’s depiction of cultural identity and colonial legacies.
	Analyzing how characters’ cultural backgrounds influence their perceptions and experiences of love.
Deconstruction	Examining the ambiguity and contradictions within the narrative.
	Analyzing how Carver’s use of fragmented storytelling and unresolved conflicts invites multiple interpretations of love.
New Criticism	Focusing solely on the text itself rather than external context or authorial intent.
	Analyzing the story’s symbolism, themes, and literary devices to uncover deeper meanings and interpretations of love.

Topics, Questions and Thesis Statements about “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love” by Raymond Carver

Topics:

1. Perception of Love: Explore how different characters in the story perceive and experience love, ranging from romantic ideals to dysfunctional relationships.
2. Communication and Miscommunication: Analyze the theme of communication (or lack thereof) in the story, focusing on how characters struggle to articulate their feelings and understand one another.
3. Power Dynamics in Relationships: Examine the power dynamics between characters, particularly in romantic relationships, and how they influence the dynamics of love and control.
4. The Fragility of Love: Investigate the fragility and complexity of love portrayed in the story, considering how it can be both sustaining and destructive.

Questions:

1. How do the characters’ diverse experiences and definitions of love contribute to the thematic exploration of the story?
2. In what ways do communication barriers hinder the characters’ ability to connect and understand each other’s perspectives on love?
3. How do power dynamics, such as those between Mel and Terri, shape the characters’ interactions and perceptions of love throughout the narrative?
4. What insights does the story offer about the transient and often fragile nature of love, and how does this contribute to its overall thematic resonance?

Thesis Statements:

1. Through the varied experiences and perspectives of its characters, “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love” by Raymond Carver highlights the multifaceted nature of love and its subjective interpretation.
2. Carver’s exploration of communication breakdowns and misunderstandings underscores the challenges inherent in expressing and comprehending love in human relationships, as seen in “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love.”
3. By examining the power dynamics between characters, particularly in the context of romantic relationships, Carver illuminates how love can be both a source of empowerment and vulnerability in “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love.”
4. Through its portrayal of love’s fragility and impermanence, “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love” by Raymond Carver offers a poignant meditation on the complexities and uncertainties of human relationships.

Short Questions/Answers about “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love” by Raymond Carver

Q1: How does the story’s structure reflect the challenges of discussing love?

A1: Carver’s story lacks a traditional plot structure and is largely driven by dialogue. This meandering conversation, fueled by alcohol, mirrors how discussions of love can feel disjointed and fragmented. The characters interrupt each other, change topics abruptly, and offer anecdotes that seem to lead nowhere. This reflects the difficulty of pinning down a universal definition of love and the frustration that comes with trying to articulate such a complex emotion.

Q2: What’s the significance of Mel McGinnis’s role in the conversation?

A2: Mel, a cardiologist, initially portrays himself as an authority on love. However, his long-winded, sometimes contradictory statements reveal his own insecurities and confusion about the subject. Mel’s attempts to dominate the conversation highlight how ego and the projection of expertise can interfere with true understanding, even when the topic is as universal and personal as love.

Q3: How does Terri’s story about her abusive ex-boyfriend challenge conventional notions of love?

A3: Terri’s insistence that her ex-boyfriend’s violence was a twisted expression of love disrupts idealized views of love as purely positive. Her story forces the characters (and the reader) to confront the uncomfortable reality that love can coexist with harm and destructive patterns. It raises questions about the boundaries of love, the allure of danger, and whether a clear distinction can be made between love and obsession.

Q4: In what ways does the setting contribute to the story’s atmosphere and themes?

A4: The story is set in a domestic kitchen, a seemingly ordinary and intimate space. This contrasts with the escalating emotional intensity of the conversation, suggesting a tension between the mundane and the profound. The continuous supply of gin and the fading sunlight create a sense of timelessness, hinting that this conversation about love, with its confusions and anxieties, is both universal and cyclical.

Literary Works Similar to “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love” by Raymond Carver

1. “Dubliners” by James Joyce: This collection of short stories delves into the lives of ordinary Dubliners and their struggles with love, identity, and society, echoing Carver’s focus on everyday characters and their complex inner lives.
2. “Interpreter of Maladies” by Jhumpa Lahiri: Like Carver’s stories, Lahiri’s collection examines the intricacies of human relationships, often highlighting moments of misunderstanding, longing, and connection among characters.
3. “A Visit from the Goon Squad” by Jennifer Egan: Egan’s novel weaves together interconnected stories that explore themes of love, time, and memory, offering a kaleidoscopic view of modern life and relationships.
4. “Olive Kitteridge” by Elizabeth Strout: Similar to Carver’s focus on ordinary people in small-town America, Strout’s novel-in-stories delves into the lives of residents in a coastal Maine town, exploring themes of love, loss, and resilience.
5. “Birds of America” by Lorrie Moore: Moore’s collection of short stories examines the complexities of contemporary relationships with wit, humor, and poignancy, resonating with Carver’s exploration of human emotions and experiences.

Suggested Readings about/on “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love” by Raymond Carver

Peer-Reviewed Journal Articles:

• Broyard, Anatole. “Books of The Times.” The New York Times, 15 Apr. 1981, https://archive.nytimes.com/www.nytimes.com/books/01/01/21/specials/carver-what.html.
  • While not a traditional scholarly article, Meyer’s piece provides critical insight into the reception of Carver’s short story collection and its influence on contemporary writers.

Book Chapters:

• Gentry, Marshall Bruce, and William L. Stull. “Raymond Carver.” Conversations with Raymond Carver, edited by Marshall Bruce Gentry and William L. Stull, University Press of Mississippi, 1990, pp. 140-151.
  • This chapter provides direct commentary from Carver about his minimalist style, choices in “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love”, and its place within his larger body of work.
• Nesset, Kirk. “The Stories of Raymond Carver: A Critical Study.” Ohio University Press, 1995.
  • This book offers a comprehensive analysis of Carver’s works. Find the chapter dedicated to “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love” for in-depth analysis and discussions on the story’s themes.

Websites

1. Gordon, Mary. “The Art of Raymond Carver.” The New York Review of Books, 24 June 1982, https://www.nybooks.com/articles/1982/06/24/the-art-of-raymond-carver/.
2. “Raymond Carver.” Poetry Foundation, https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poets/raymond-carver.

Introduction: “Saboteur” by Ha Jin

“Saboteur” by Ha Jin, first published in 1996 in The Antioch Review, is a powerful look at the dangers of unchecked authority and the fragile position of individuals within an oppressive system. Jin, a Chinese author writing in English, explores the experiences of a university professor wrongly accused and imprisoned, highlighting the vulnerability of intellectuals under authoritarian regimes. The story’s sharp social commentary and exploration of individual resilience in the face of injustice continue to resonate with readers today.

Main Events: “Saboteur” by Ha Jin

1. Unjust Arrest: Railroad police interrupt Mr. Chiu and his bride’s lunch, falsely accuse him of disrupting public order, and arrest him despite his protests. The police’s mistreatment, such as throwing hot tea on the couple, emphasizes their abuse of power.
2. False Accusations: Mr. Chiu is imprisoned and branded a “saboteur.” The police dismiss his claims of innocence and threaten to sabotage his travel plans by letting his train ticket expire.
3. Isolation and Denial: Locked in a cell, Mr. Chiu is denied contact with his bride and any means of proving his innocence. This highlights the injustice and helplessness of his situation.
4. Coerced Witnesses: During interrogation, the police present coerced witness statements against Mr. Chiu, further demonstrating the manipulation used to secure a false conviction.
5. Deteriorating Health: Mr. Chiu’s pre-existing hepatitis flares up due to the stress of his unjust imprisonment and mistreatment, adding a physical dimension to his suffering.
6. Resistance and Threats: Mr. Chiu refuses to cooperate and demands compensation and an apology for his mistreatment. He even threatens legal action, showcasing his determination to fight back.
7. Witness to Further Injustice: From his cell, Mr. Chiu witnesses the police torturing Fenjin, a young lawyer and his former student, who has come to his aid. The water torture Fenjin endures exemplifies the cruelty of the authorities.
8. Impossible Choice: The police use Fenjin’s suffering as leverage, forcing Mr. Chiu to choose between his own freedom and saving his student from further abuse.
9. Forced Confession to Save Another: In a heartbreaking act of sacrifice, Mr. Chiu signs a false confession admitting to fabricated crimes in exchange for Fenjin’s release.
10. Release and Inner Turmoil: Though free, Mr. Chiu is ravaged by illness, anger, and a profound sense of injustice that seeps into his every action.
11. Ominous Observation: Fenjin tries to comfort his teacher, unaware of the depth of Mr. Chiu’s pain and the plans for revenge simmering within him.
12. A Cryptic Act of Protest: Mr. Chiu visits multiple restaurants near the police station, ordering small portions and muttering threats. This strange behavior hints at his inner turmoil and potential plans.
13. Vengeance Seeded: Mr. Chiu’s vengeful muttering and erratic behavior foreshadow a possible act of retribution against his oppressors.
14. Seeds of Wider Consequences: The story concludes by revealing a hepatitis outbreak in the area. This suggests a potential connection to Mr. Chiu’s mistreatment and imprisonment, highlighting the far-reaching consequences of injustice.

Literary Devices: “Saboteur” by Ha Jin

Literary Device	Example from “Saboteur”	Explanation
Allegory	The story can be read as an allegory for the abuse of power, corruption, and the suppression of individual rights within authoritarian systems.	The false accusations against Mr. Chiu and the police’s brutality symbolize how easily authority can be misused to control and silence citizens.
Contrast	Mr. Chiu’s meticulous eating habits at the beginning contrast sharply with his frenzied eating spree after his release.	This highlights the transformation from law-abiding citizen to a man driven by rage and desire for vengeance.
Dialogue	Conversations between Mr. Chiu and the police, as well as with his bride and Fenjin, reveal the characters’ motivations and the unjust power dynamics in play.	Mr. Chiu’s assertive dialogue when first arrested shows his belief in justice, while his defeated tone after imprisonment reveals the toll it has taken on him.
Foreshadowing	The hepatitis outbreak at the end foreshadows a potential act of revenge by Mr. Chiu, possibly through deliberate contamination.	This creates suspense and a sense of impending consequence.
Hyperbole	Mr. Chiu’s exaggerated threats to sue the police and seek media attention emphasize his desperation and his futile attempts to fight against a corrupt system.	It highlights the feeling of powerlessness experienced by ordinary citizens.
Imagery	Vivid details of the food Mr. Chiu eats, his physical ailments, and the squalid conditions of his cell create a strong sensory experience for the reader.	This immerses the reader in Mr. Chiu’s experience, evoking empathy and making his plight more visceral.
Irony	The police, meant to uphold order, are the ones disrupting the peace and falsely accusing an innocent man.	This underscores the perversion of justice and their abuse of power.
Juxtaposition	The peaceful image of Chairman Mao’s statue with peasants napping at its base is juxtaposed with the violence and injustice Mr. Chiu experiences.	This contrasts the ideals often presented by authority figures with the harsh reality citizens can face.
Metaphor	Mr. Chiu’s hepatitis is a metaphor for his growing anger and desire for revenge.	It symbolizes how the mistreatment consumes him, both physically and emotionally.
Motif	The repeated mention of food – from the initial lunch to the revenge-fueled eating spree – becomes a motif representing both comfort and potential weaponization.	This emphasizes Mr. Chiu’s transformation and hints at the symbolic nature of his actions.
Pathetic Fallacy	The sunny, pleasant weather on the day of his arrest contrasts with the injustice unfolding.	This highlights the indifference of the world to an individual’s suffering.
Repetition	Mr. Chiu’s repeated insistence on his innocence and his demands for justice underscore his frustration and ultimately the futility of his efforts.	This emphasizes how easily the voices of ordinary citizens can be crushed by those in power.
Setting	The location of the story at a train station and police headquarters emphasizes themes of transition, authority, and confinement.	This reinforces the feeling of being trapped in an unjust situation.
Simile	Describing Mr. Chiu’s anger building as “a bomb” in his chest conveys the intensity and volatility of his emotions.	It vividly illustrates his potential for destructive action.
Symbolism	The act of eating represents both a source of strength and a potential weapon.	It symbolizes Mr. Chiu’s desperate struggle to regain control, even if by unconventional means.
Third-person limited	The story is told from Mr. Chiu’s perspective, allowing the reader to experience his confusion, fear, and growing rage.	This fosters a sense of empathy and outrage on his behalf.

Characterization in “Saboteur” by Ha Jin

Major Characters:

• Mr. Chiu:
  • Description: Mr. Chiu is the protagonist of the story, a recently married man on his honeymoon. He is recovering from hepatitis and is cautious about his health. Despite being falsely accused of sabotage, he maintains his principles and refuses to confess to a crime he did not commit.
  • Actions: Mr. Chiu is wrongfully arrested by the railroad policemen after a confrontation in the square. Despite facing pressure and threats from the authorities, he remains steadfast in his innocence and demands justice.
  • Traits: Assertive, principled, intellectual.
• Mr. Chiu’s Bride:
  • Description: Mr. Chiu’s wife accompanies him on their honeymoon. She expresses concern for his well-being during his arrest but is ultimately powerless to intervene effectively.
  • Actions: She supports Mr. Chiu emotionally but is unable to prevent his arrest or provide substantial assistance.
  • Traits: Supportive, distressed, inexperienced.
• Fenjin:
  • Description: Fenjin is a recent law graduate and a former student of Mr. Chiu. He attempts to help Mr. Chiu during his ordeal but ends up being arrested and tortured alongside him.
  • Actions: Fenjin tries to intervene on behalf of Mr. Chiu but is unsuccessful, leading to his own arrest and mistreatment by the authorities.
  • Traits: Idealistic, brave, impulsive.

Minor Characters:

• Railroad Policemen:
  • Description: The officers stationed at Muji Train Station who unjustly arrest Mr. Chiu. They abuse their power and act aggressively towards Mr. Chiu and his wife.
  • Actions: They instigate a confrontation with Mr. Chiu in the square, leading to his arrest and subsequent mistreatment.
  • Traits: Abusive, authoritarian.
• Chief of the Interrogation Bureau:
  • Description: The head of the police department responsible for interrogating Mr. Chiu. He pressures Mr. Chiu to confess to the alleged crime and threatens further punishment if he refuses.
  • Actions: The chief manipulates Mr. Chiu, using intimidation tactics to coerce a false confession from him.
  • Traits: Manipulative, authoritative.
• Guards:
  • Description: The police officers tasked with managing detainees at the police station. They escort Mr. Chiu within the facility and carry out orders from their superiors.
  • Actions: The guards follow orders and maintain order within the police station, showing little empathy towards detainees.
  • Traits: Obedient, indifferent.
• Food Vendors:
  • Description: Sellers near the police station and train station who serve food and drinks to Mr. Chiu and Fenjin.
  • Actions: The vendors provide sustenance to Mr. Chiu and Fenjin during their ordeal, though they remain indifferent to the circumstances surrounding their customers.
  • Traits: Transactional, indifferent to circumstances.

Major Themes in “Saboteur” by Ha Jin

1. Abuse of Power and Authority: “Saboteur” highlights the theme of abuse of power and authority by depicting the unjust actions of the railroad policemen towards Mr. Chiu. The story begins with Mr. Chiu and his bride innocently enjoying lunch when they are targeted and harassed by the officers without any valid reason. Despite Mr. Chiu’s attempts to reason with them, the policemen escalate the situation by physically assaulting him and fabricating charges of sabotage. This abuse of power is further exemplified when Mr. Chiu is subjected to interrogation and coerced into signing a false confession by the chief of the Interrogation Bureau. Through these events, Ha Jin underscores how individuals in positions of authority can misuse their power to oppress and victimize innocent citizens.
2. Injustice and Oppression: The theme of injustice and oppression permeates the narrative as Mr. Chiu becomes a victim of false accusations and mistreatment at the hands of the authorities. Despite his innocence, Mr. Chiu is subjected to arrest, detention, and torture solely based on the whims of the railroad policemen. His attempts to assert his innocence are met with skepticism and further abuse, highlighting the systemic injustices prevalent within the society depicted in the story. Moreover, the mistreatment extends to Fenjin, who is also unjustly targeted for his attempt to aid Mr. Chiu. Ha Jin portrays a bleak picture of a society where individuals are at the mercy of a corrupt and oppressive system.
3. Individual Resistance and Integrity: Amidst the pervasive injustice, “Saboteur” also explores the theme of individual resistance and integrity through Mr. Chiu’s unwavering commitment to truth and justice. Despite facing immense pressure and coercion, Mr. Chiu refuses to confess to a crime he did not commit, maintaining his integrity and principles throughout his ordeal. His steadfast refusal to compromise his values, even in the face of grave consequences, serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Additionally, Fenjin’s willingness to stand by Mr. Chiu and support him despite the risks demonstrates the power of solidarity and moral courage in the fight against oppression.
4. Consequences of Resentment and Retribution: Ha Jin explores the theme of consequences of resentment and retribution through the story’s chilling conclusion. Mr. Chiu, consumed by anger and resentment towards his oppressors, expresses a desire for vengeance, muttering about killing them all. This desire for retribution manifests in the form of an epidemic of acute hepatitis that sweeps through Muji, resulting in numerous casualties, including innocent children. The outbreak serves as a grim reminder of the destructive consequences of unchecked resentment and the cyclical nature of violence. Ha Jin suggests that while individuals may seek retribution for past injustices, the repercussions of such actions can perpetuate further suffering and harm, ultimately leading to a tragic cycle of violence and loss.

Writing Style in “Saboteur” by Ha Jin

Writing Style in “Saboteur” by Ha Jin

1. Sparse and Descriptive Language:

Ha Jin employs a sparse yet vivid writing style, using descriptive language to evoke the atmosphere and setting of the story. For example, he describes the scene at the train station with succinct yet evocative details, such as “the air smelled of rotten melon” and “a flock of pigeons perched on the chairman’s raised hand and forearm.” These descriptions immerse the reader in the narrative, creating a palpable sense of place and mood.

2. Dialogue-driven Narrative:

The story unfolds primarily through dialogue, driving the narrative forward and revealing the characters’ motivations and conflicts. Dialogue is used to convey tension, emotion, and power dynamics between characters, such as Mr. Chiu’s confrontations with the railroad policemen. For instance, the dialogue exchanges during Mr. Chiu’s interrogation showcase the power struggle between him and the authorities, adding depth to the characterization and plot development.

3. Psychological Insight into Characters:

Ha Jin provides subtle insights into the characters’ inner thoughts and emotions, offering glimpses into their psychological states and motivations. Through Mr. Chiu’s internal monologue and reactions, the reader gains insight into his growing frustration, anger, and determination to resist injustice. Similarly, Fenjin’s reactions and responses to the unfolding events offer clues to his resilience and moral compass in the face of adversity.

4. Symbolism and Allegory:

The narrative incorporates elements of symbolism and allegory to convey deeper thematic layers and social commentary. For example, the statue of Chairman Mao in the town square symbolizes authority and control, reflecting the oppressive nature of the regime and its impact on individuals like Mr. Chiu. Additionally, the epidemic of hepatitis at the story’s conclusion serves as an allegory for the destructive consequences of unchecked resentment and violence in society. Through these symbolic elements, Ha Jin invites readers to reflect on broader themes of power, justice, and morality.

Literary Theories and Interpretation of “Saboteur” by Ha Jin

1. Marxist Criticism:

Marxist criticism can be applied to “Saboteur” to analyze the story’s portrayal of social class struggle and power dynamics. Mr. Chiu’s encounter with the corrupt authorities at the train station reflects the oppression of the working class by those in positions of authority. His unjust arrest and treatment by the police highlight the exploitation and abuse of power in a hierarchical society. Furthermore, the story’s setting in post-Cultural Revolution China provides a backdrop for examining Marxist themes of inequality and resistance.

2. Feminist Criticism:

From a feminist perspective, “Saboteur” can be interpreted through the lens of gender roles and patriarchy. While the story primarily focuses on Mr. Chiu’s ordeal, his bride’s presence and reactions offer insight into the experiences of women in a male-dominated society. Despite her intelligence and education, she is rendered powerless and marginalized in the face of authority, reflecting broader gender disparities and societal expectations. Her silence and inability to assert herself underscore the limitations placed on women within the narrative.

3. Psychoanalytic Criticism:

Psychoanalytic criticism can uncover subconscious desires, fears, and motivations within the characters of “Saboteur.” Mr. Chiu’s escalating anger and defiance against the authorities may stem from repressed feelings of resentment and disillusionment with the social order. His aggressive behavior and fantasies of revenge could be seen as manifestations of unconscious impulses seeking release. Similarly, the policemen’s abuse of power and sadistic treatment of Mr. Chiu may reflect their own psychological insecurities and need for control.

4. Postcolonial Criticism:

Postcolonial theory offers insights into the themes of imperialism and cultural identity in “Saboteur.” Although the story is set in post-revolutionary China, it explores dynamics of power and resistance reminiscent of colonial contexts. The oppressive actions of the police and Mr. Chiu’s defiance can be interpreted as symbolic of resistance against colonial or authoritarian regimes. Additionally, the story’s conclusion, with the outbreak of hepatitis affecting hundreds, may symbolize the lingering effects of colonialism or external interference on the nation’s health and well-being.

Topics, Questions and Thesis Statements about “Saboteur” by Ha Jin

Topics

• The Absurdity of Accusation
• The Power of Propaganda and Manipulation
• The Individual vs. the State
• Betrayal and the Destruction of Trust
• The Psychological Toll of False Imprisonment

Questions

• How does Ha Jin create a sense of paranoia and suspicion within the story?
• To what extent is Mr. Chiu responsible for his own downfall?
• Does Mr. Chiu ever truly believe the accusations made against him?
• How does the story portray the shifting dynamics of power within relationships?
• How does the story function as a critique of totalitarian regimes?

Thesis Statements

• Ha Jin’s “Saboteur” explores how state propaganda and manufactured fear can turn ordinary citizens into victims of their own society.
• “Saboteur” reveals the psychological deterioration of an innocent man who is destroyed by a system designed to crush individuality and instill obedience.
• Through the experiences of Mr. Chiu, Ha Jin examines the fragility of personal identity and the ease with which reputations can be manipulated and destroyed.
• Ha Jin’s “Saboteur” serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unquestioning loyalty and the dehumanizing effects of authoritarian control.

Short Questions/Answers about “Saboteur” by Ha Jin

• Question: How does the story highlight the insidious nature of propaganda?
• Answer: “Saboteur” demonstrates how propaganda subtly erodes trust and fuels suspicion. The constant barrage of slogans and accusations against “saboteurs” creates an atmosphere of fear and paranoia. Even Mr. Chiu’s wife begins to doubt him, mirroring the state’s ability to turn loved ones against each other. When she reports his “anti-party” remark about the bad quality of a light bulb, it shows how the propaganda has warped everyday actions into acts of potential sabotage.
• Question: How is Mr. Chiu both a victim and a participant in his own persecution?
• Answer: While unquestionably a victim of a totalitarian system, Mr. Chiu also contributes to his downfall by internalizing the state’s rhetoric. His initial insistence on reporting his “mistake” reflects his indoctrination in self-surveillance. Later, he even begins to fabricate details to make his confessions more convincing. This highlights the psychological manipulation that makes victims complicit in their own oppression.
• Question: How does the setting of the university compound reflect the social dynamics of the story?
• Answer: The claustrophobic environment of the university amplifies the sense of confinement and the inescapability of surveillance. Colleagues become potential accusers, and the once-familiar space transforms into a prison. This mirroring of the physical and psychological state reinforces the story’s themes of entrapment and the erosion of personal freedom.
• Question: What is the significance of the ending, and how does it leave the reader feeling?
• Answer: The ending, with Mr. Chiu’s reassignment to menial labor, underscores the devastating and irreversible impact of false accusations. It offers no resolution or redemption. This bleakness leaves the reader with a lingering sense of unease and injustice, emphasizing the destructive power of totalitarian regimes.

Literary Works Similar to “Saboteur” by Ha Jin

1. “The Bet” by Anton Chekhov: This short story explores themes of power, morality, and the human condition. Similar to “Saboteur,” it delves into the consequences of unchecked authority and the ethical dilemmas faced by individuals in oppressive systems.
2. “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson: Like “Saboteur,” this renowned short story examines the darker aspects of human nature and society. Set in a seemingly idyllic town, “The Lottery” uncovers the brutality and conformity inherent in tradition and social order.
3. “Bartleby, the Scrivener” by Herman Melville: This novella offers a critique of capitalist society and explores themes of alienation and resistance. Like Mr. Chiu in “Saboteur,” Bartleby’s passive resistance challenges the authority and norms of his workplace.
4. “The Trial” by Franz Kafka: Kafka’s novel deals with themes of bureaucracy, absurdity, and the individual’s struggle against an opaque and oppressive system. This existential exploration shares similarities with Mr. Chiu’s Kafkaesque ordeal in “Saboteur.”
5. “The Underground Railroad” by Colson Whitehead: While not a short story, this Pulitzer Prize-winning novel offers a powerful narrative of resistance and escape from oppression. Like “Saboteur,” it examines the human capacity for both cruelty and resilience in the face of systemic injustice.

Suggested Readings about “Saboteur” by Ha Jin

Books:

1. Jin, Ha. The Bridegroom: Stories. Vintage Books, 2001.
   • Includes “Saboteur” among other short stories by Ha Jin, providing insight into the author’s themes and style.

Articles:

1. Su, Lezhou. Narrative of modern Chinese masculinity in Ha Jin’s fiction. University of Louisville, 2012.
2. Discusses Ha Jin’s position within Chinese literary tradition, offering context for understanding “Saboteur” and its themes.

Websites:

1. The Antioch Review. “Saboteur by Ha Jin.” Antioch Review, Inc., 1996, https://antiochcollege.edu/antioch-review/
   • Original source of the short story “Saboteur,” providing the text for online reading and study.

Representative Quotations from “Saboteur” by Ha Jin

Quotation	Context
“You’re lying. You wet your shoes yourself.”	Demonstrates the authority’s denial of accountability, reflecting the abuse of power against Mr. Chiu.
“Comrade policeman, your duty is to keep order, but you purposely tortured us common citizens.”	Mr. Chiu’s accusation exposes the injustice and hypocrisy of those in authority.
“I demand that you provide me with a letter of apology.”	Highlights Mr. Chiu’s insistence on justice and acknowledgment of wrongdoing by the authorities.
“We call it fiction. What we do care is that you cooperate with us.”	Reveals the arbitrary nature of the authorities’ actions and their disregard for truth or justice.
“It’s illegal to do that. Aren’t you afraid to appear in a newspaper?”	Fenjin’s question reflects a glimmer of hope for justice and accountability.
“If only I could kill all the bastards!”	Mr. Chiu’s simmering anger and frustration at the injustices he faces.
“Nobody knew how the epidemic had started.”	Concludes the story with a chilling ambiguity, suggesting the pervasive consequences of unchecked authority and oppression.
“He felt miserable, massaging his stomach continually.”	Illustrates Mr. Chiu’s physical and emotional suffering as a result of the authorities’ abuse of power.

Introduction: “Not Human Beings” by Etgar Keret

“Not Human Beings” by Etgar Keret was first published in his 2006 collection “The Girl on the Fridge”. The story exhibits many of Keret’s hallmark qualities: a darkly absurd tone, hyperrealistic depictions of violence, and a focus on ordinary individuals thrust into extraordinary, often disturbing, circumstances. It uses a deceptively simple narrative style to expose themes of dehumanization, the corrupting influence of power, and the fragility of morality in the face of war and conflict. Keret’s story forces the reader to confront uncomfortable truths about human nature and the potential for cruelty lurking beneath the surface of normalcy.

Main Events in “Not Human Beings” by Etgar Keret

1. A Naive Soldier Joins the Border Police – Shmulik Stein, an Israeli soldier, is transferred to the Border Police, a unit known for its brutality toward Palestinians.
2. Culture of Violence – Stein witnesses the Border Police’s casual violence. They harass and physically abuse Palestinians with impunity.
3. Dehumanization of Palestinians– The Border Police officers view Palestinians as less than human, referring to them as “animals” and “scum.”
4. Corruption and Hypocrisy – The soldiers take advantage of their power, stealing phone tokens from a man they’ve murdered and disguising his body.
5. Testing the Idealist – The climax of the story occurs when the officers kill a seemingly innocent man in cold blood and then gruesomely mutilate his body.
6. Innocence Lost – Stein’s resistance is brutally crushed, and he finally understands the full horror of the unit he’s joined.
7. Moral Breakdown – Unable to cope with the violence and injustice, Stein faints, symbolizing the shattering of his ideals.
8. Haunted by Guilt – Stein wakes up in his bed, physically injured but more profoundly wounded psychologically.
9. The Price of Complicity – Stein’s new understanding leaves him isolated and in a state of moral turmoil after witnessing the depths of his colleagues’ cruelty.
10. Descent into Darkness – The ending suggests that Stein is trapped, and the glowing compass on the knife might symbolize the loss of his own moral compass.

Literary Devices in “Not Human Beings” by Etgar Keret

Literary Device	Explanation	Example from “Not Human Beings”
Alliteration	Repetition of the same sound at the start of several words	“…those Border Police pricks, they’re a different army…”
Allusion	Reference to a person, place, event from history, culture, etc.	“What are you, Stein, the Red Cross?” (references the humanitarian organization)
Dialogue	Characters speaking to reveal personality and actions	“‘You know what that means,’ said Davidoff…”
Foreshadowing	Hints or clues about events that will happen later	“One day with them, and you’ll sing a different tune…”
Hyperbole	Extreme exaggeration for emphasis	“They’ll have to scrape you off the bumper of their jeep.”
Imagery	Vivid sensory description to create mental pictures	“…a hairy chest rising and falling rapidly.”
Irony	Contrast between expectation and reality	Stein expects soldiers to uphold ethical behavior, finds them monstrous.
Juxtaposition	Placement of contrasting ideas near each other	Zanzuri laughing while an old man lies injured.
Metaphor	Direct comparison without using ‘like’ or ‘as’	“…they’re wild animals…”
Metonymy	Substituting one word/concept with a related one	“…what’s your problem… He didn’t run over a human being, he ran over an Arab…”
Motif	Recurring element that contributes to the theme	Violence and dehumanization are persistent motifs in the story.
Oxymoron	Contradictory terms combined	“…root beer with a soaked rag tied around its neck…”
Paradox	A statement that seems illogical but might be true	The officer states that Arabs only want to kill, yet they are “not human”.
Pathetic Fallacy	Human emotions are attributed to nature	“Gaza looked like a ghost town.”
Personification	Giving human qualities to non-human things	“The needle of the broken compass… glowed brightly in the dark.”
Point of View	Perspective from which the story is told	The story is from Stein’s limited, first-person perspective.
Repetition	Repeating words or phrases for emphasis	“The first Arab I catch today… the first Arab I catch today…”
Simile	Comparison using ‘like’ or ‘as’	“…flat as a sheet after being emptied out.”
Symbolism	Objects that represent bigger, abstract ideas	The ripped Palestinian flag symbolizes broader oppression and conflict.
Tone	Author’s attitude toward subject and audience	Keret’s tone is bleak, critical, conveying the horror of the conflict.

Characterization in “Not Human Beings” by Etgar Keret

Major Characters

• Shmulik Stein: The protagonist and focal point of the story. He’s a naive, idealistic soldier who initially believes in rules, justice, and the basic humanity of those he’s meant to fight. The story charts his rapid disillusionment. Key characterization methods:
  • Dialogue: His initial arguments with Davidoff and the personnel officer reveal a hint of self-righteousness, but also a belief in fairness.
  • Internal monologue: His inner thoughts show growing horror and helplessness, a struggle to make sense of the brutality around him.
  • Actions: He confronts the mute and tries to help the injured Arab, showing he’s not yet completely numb. However, his final act of violence with the knife leaves his fate ambiguous.
• The Border Police Officer: The primary antagonist, representing the dehumanizing effects of the conflict. Key characterization methods:
  • Actions: His casual violence (running over the old man), disregard for life, and the stomach-cutting scene portray him as monstrous.
  • Dialogue: His justifications (“they’re not human beings”) are chilling in their indifference.

Minor Characters

• Davidoff: A cynical fellow soldier. His main function is to foreshadow the darkness Stein will encounter. He’s characterized through dialogue and brief descriptions (“ungluing his eyes” suggests world-weariness).
• Zanzuri: A brutal, crude soldier who enjoys violence. Characterized primarily through grotesque actions (the knife incident, butting the bound man) and brief snippets of dialogue showing greed and racism.
• The Russki: A sadistic, seemingly unfeeling soldier. He’s characterized mainly through his participation in violence and his bizarre plan to use the dead Arab’s skin as a scooter cover.
• Shafik (the Black soldier): The least characterized of the Border Police. His silence and being targeted by Zanzuri’s racism subtly hints at his own position of marginalized powerlessness within the hierarchy of oppression.
• The Mute (scar-faced soldier): Defined solely through violence. He exists as a physical embodiment of the system’s capacity for brutality.

Overall Function of Characterization

Keret uses characterization to expose the horrors of conflict and how systems of oppression dehumanize everyone involved.

• Stein’s arc is a tragedy: He begins with some moral compass, but the ending raises questions about whether he too will become irrevocably corrupted.
• The Border Police are not nuanced villains: They’re blunt instruments of a system that breeds inhumanity. This makes the story even more disturbing.
• Lack of names for most of the Border Police: This reinforces their de-individualization, making them symbols of the system rather than fully-fledged people.

Major Themes in “Not Human Beings” by Etgar Keret

Writing Style in “Not Human Beings” by Etgar Keret

• Stark and Gritty Realism:
  • Example: The portrayal of military life is depicted realistically, with descriptions of tense interactions, brutal actions, and moral conflicts faced by the characters.
• Short, Concise Sentences:
  • Example: Keret employs brief sentences to convey the urgency and tension of the situations, such as, “Whenever he went out on patrol in one of those armored, rock-resistant jeeps, there were always riots.”
• Dialogue-Heavy Passages:
  • Example: The story is rich in dialogue, revealing the characters’ personalities, power dynamics, and the moral complexities of their situations, as seen in exchanges like, “‘He didn’t run over a human being,’ Zanzuri corrected. ‘He ran over an Arab, so what the fuck is your problem?’”
• Raw and Authentic Dialogue:
  • Example: The dialogue captures the characters’ language and attitudes realistically, with exchanges reflecting cynicism, resignation, and moral conflict, such as, “‘You just don’t get it, do you?’ the officer said.”
• Sensory Details:
  • Example: Keret incorporates vivid sensory details to immerse the reader in the environment, including descriptions of heat, sweat, violence, and chaos, such as, “The first Arab I catch today is going to be one sorry son of a bitch!”
• Specific Imagery:
  • Example: The story includes specific imagery that adds to its vividness, such as the sight of the body on the sidewalk, the sound of tokens jingling in Zanzuri’s pockets, and the descriptions of brutal actions and their aftermath.

Literary Theories and Interpretation of “Not Human Beings” by Etgar Keret

Literary Theory	Interpretation	Examples from the Story
Marxist Criticism	Examines the story through the lens of power dynamics, social class, and oppression.	The hierarchical structure within the military and the mistreatment of Arabs reflect power imbalances and social inequality.
Psychoanalytic Criticism	Analyzes the characters’ behaviors and motivations based on unconscious desires and conflicts.	The characters’ brutal actions towards Arabs may stem from deep-seated prejudices or psychological trauma associated with their roles in the military.
Feminist Criticism	Explores gender roles, stereotypes, and representations of women in the story.	While the story primarily focuses on male characters, it may be interpreted in terms of the toxic masculinity and violence perpetuated within the military environment.
Postcolonial Criticism	Considers the story’s depiction of colonialism, imperialism, and resistance.	The mistreatment of Arabs by Israeli soldiers reflects themes of colonial oppression and resistance, highlighting the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
New Criticism	Analyzes the text in isolation, focusing on literary devices, imagery, and symbolism.	Close examination of Keret’s use of dialogue, imagery, and sensory details reveals the harsh realities and moral complexities of military life.
Reader-Response Criticism	Emphasizes the reader’s subjective interpretation and personal response to the text.	Readers may react emotionally to the story’s depiction of violence and injustice, sparking reflection on their own beliefs and values.
Structuralism	Examines the story’s structure and underlying patterns to uncover hidden meanings.	The recurring motif of violence and dehumanization in the interactions between soldiers and Arabs reflects broader social and political tensions.
Poststructuralism	Challenges traditional interpretations by emphasizing the instability of language and meaning.	The story’s ambiguous ending leaves room for multiple interpretations, inviting readers to question their assumptions and explore alternative perspectives.
Cultural Criticism	Considers the story within its cultural and historical context, exploring societal norms and values.	Keret’s portrayal of military life reflects broader cultural attitudes towards power, violence, and identity in Israeli society.
Queer Theory	Analyzes the story’s representation of sexuality, gender, and identity.	While not a central theme, the story may be examined through a queer lens to explore issues of masculinity, power dynamics, and marginalized identities within the military.

Topics, Questions, and Thesis Statements about “Not Human Beings” by Etgar Keret

• Power Dynamics in the Military:
  • How do power dynamics manifest within the military hierarchy in “Not Human Beings”?
  • What role does power play in shaping the interactions between soldiers and Arabs in the story?
  • Thesis Statement: In “Not Human Beings,” Etgar Keret explores the pervasive influence of power dynamics within the military, illustrating how they affect the behavior and attitudes of soldiers towards both their comrades and those they perceive as enemies.
• Dehumanization and Violence:
  • How does the story depict the dehumanization of both soldiers and Arabs?
  • What role does violence play in perpetuating dehumanization within the military context?
  • Thesis Statement: Through vivid portrayals of violence and dehumanization, “Not Human Beings” by Etgar Keret exposes the brutal realities of military life and the psychological toll it takes on both perpetrators and victims.
• Moral Ambiguity and Ethical Dilemmas:
  • What ethical dilemmas do the characters face in the story, particularly in their treatment of Arabs?
  • How does the narrative challenge conventional notions of morality within the context of war?
  • Thesis Statement: “Not Human Beings” confronts readers with complex moral questions, inviting them to grapple with the ethical dilemmas faced by soldiers operating in a morally ambiguous environment where the lines between right and wrong blur.
• Identity and Otherness:
  • How does the story explore themes of identity and otherness, particularly in relation to Arab characters?
  • What insights does the narrative offer into the construction of identity within the military context?
  • Thesis Statement: Etgar Keret’s “Not Human Beings” delves into the complexities of identity and otherness, shedding light on how individuals navigate questions of belonging, loyalty, and perceived difference in the midst of conflict.

Short Questions/Answers: “Not Human Beings” by Etgar Keret

• How does the story establish a contrast between Stein’s initial mindset and the reality he’s about to encounter?
• The story sets up a sharp contrast between Stein’s initial normalcy and the impending brutality through the game of backgammon and Davidoff’s warnings. Backgammon is a leisure activity, suggesting Stein’s current life is relatively peaceful. Davidoff’s nervous demeanor and cryptic advice to “be strong” foreshadow a dark shift Stein is about to experience.
• In what way does the story use foreshadowing to hint at the moral dilemma Stein will face?
• The story subtly foreshadows Stein’s moral dilemma through Davidoff’s characterization of the border regiment. Davidoff doesn’t explicitly describe their actions, but his hushed tone and nervous warnings like “They’re not like us” and “They do things…” imply a level of violence and dehumanization that Stein isn’t prepared for. This creates a sense of unease and suggests Stein will have to confront his own beliefs in the face of their actions.
• How does the act of cutting open the Arab prisoner serve as a symbolic turning point in the story, and what does it reveal about Stein’s new unit?
• The act of the officer slashing open the Arab prisoner’s stomach is a horrific turning point. It’s a deliberate act of dehumanization. The expectation is to find weapons, symbols of threat, but instead, everyday items like candy and phone tokens spill out. This brutal act reveals the unit’s prejudice and disregard for the humanity of those they consider enemies.
• Beyond physical revulsion, what deeper emotional conflict does Stein likely experience after witnessing the violence?
• Stein’s reaction goes beyond physical disgust. The image of his shaking hands at the end suggests a deeper emotional turmoil. He’s likely grappling with feelings of fear, betrayal, and a crisis of conscience. He may question the cause he’s fighting for and his role within this brutal unit. The story doesn’t tell us his internal monologue, but the shaking hands leave a powerful image of his struggle.

Literary Works Similar to “Not Human Beings” by Etgar Keret

1. “The Yellow Wind” by David Grossman – This non-fiction work explores the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, offering a firsthand account of the author’s travels through the West Bank and Gaza Strip. Like Keret’s story, it delves into the complexities of the region’s political and social dynamics.
2. “Catch-22” by Joseph Heller – Heller’s classic satirical novel offers a darkly humorous portrayal of the absurdities of war and bureaucracy. Similar to “Not Human Beings,” it examines the moral ambiguity and dehumanizing effects of military life.
3. “The Things They Carried” by Tim O’Brien – O’Brien’s collection of interconnected short stories explores the experiences of American soldiers during the Vietnam War. Like Keret, O’Brien delves into the psychological and emotional toll of warfare on individuals.
4. “Redeployment” by Phil Klay – This collection of short stories provides a gritty and realistic portrayal of the Iraq War and its aftermath. Like Keret, Klay examines the complexities of combat and the challenges faced by soldiers returning home.
5. “Beirut Blues” by Hanan al-Shaykh – This novel offers a nuanced perspective on the Lebanese Civil War, exploring themes of violence, identity, and trauma. Like Keret’s work, it delves into the human cost of conflict and the ways in which it shapes individual lives.

Suggested Readings about “Not Human Beings” by Etgar Keret

• Kamine, Mark. “Why it hurts.” TLS. Times Literary Supplement 5691 (2012): 19-20.
• Kashua, Sayed, and Etgar Keret. “Tell me a story with a happy ending.” pts 1 (2014): 13-14.
• Keret, Etgar. The Girl on the Fridge: Stories. Macmillan, 2008.
• Keret, Etgar. The Seven Good Years: A Memoir. Penguin, 2015.
• Marron, Orley K. “Etgar Keret’s Fantastic Reality.” With Both Feet on the Clouds: Fantasy in Israeli Literature (1976): 87-111.
• Rose, Jacqueline. “Poet of the Blind.” Index on Censorship 38.2 (2009): 173-179.
• Schwartz, Yigal. ““A Story or a Bullet between the Eyes” Etgar Keret: Repetitiveness, Morality, and Postmodernism.” Hebrew Studies 58 (2017): 425-444.

Representative Quotes from “Not Human Beings” by Etgar Keret

1. “Here comes trouble,” said Davidoff, the regiment commander’s driver, as he spotted the Border Police officer approaching.
2. “It means they’re going to move one of our guys over to them, ‘personnel reinforcement’ they call it. This isn’t the first time,” Davidoff explained the implications of the Border Police officer’s presence.
3. “Sometimes you can be such an asshole… They’ll eat you alive. Especially an Ashkenazi putz like you,” Davidoff warned Stein about the Border Police officers.
4. “Those Border Police pricks, they’re a different army, they don’t think like us at all. They’re wild animals,” the personnel officer described the Border Police.
5. “Okay, who’s the prick that stole my commando knife?” Zanzuri demanded in the tent.
6. “Your bunk’s over there,” the officer pointed out Stein’s place, indifferent to the tension in the air.
7. “They couldn’t drive down a single street without a brick flying at them,” describing the usual riots during patrols.
8. “He didn’t run over a human being, he ran over an Arab, so what the fuck is your problem?” Zanzuri corrected Stein’s accusation.
9. “Those scum have only one thing on their minds—killing you. It’s their only reason for living,” the officer explained his perspective on dealing with Arabs.
10. “Don’t touch the candy. It’s poisoned,” the officer cautioned his men after finding unexpected items in the Arab’s stomach.