Discussion/Quiz Questions

Joyce Carol Oates
Heat
Questions based on the analysis provided at http://www.levity.com/corduroy/oateshea.htm. Feel free to use this information as a resource when writing your responses.

1. Oates' brief introduction to the story as anthologized in The Oxford Book of American Short Stories explains:

For the author, the formal challenge of "Heat" was to present a narrative in a seemingly acausal manner, analogous to the playing of a piano sans pedal; as if each paragraph, or chord, were separate from the rest. For how otherwise can we speak of the unspeakable, except through the prism of technique?

What does she mean by this?

2. Why do you think Oates titled this story "Heat"?

3. What main ideas—themes—does Oates explore? Don't forget discuss the title, often a clue to a story's theme.

4. Some argue that this story reads as a news article or obituary. Why do you think Oates chose to write the story this way? Do you think it strengthens or weakens the story? Why?

5. What do you think of the characterization of Roger Whipple? Do you think it's fair that he will not be charged for the sexual assault and murder of the twins?


Tobias Wolff
Hunters in the Snow
Questions adapted from Holy Huddle

1. Describe the development of Frank and Tub’s relationship after Kenny is shot. What factors are at play here? Do you find it believable that they leave Kenny in the back of the truck while enjoying the warmth of a roadhouse—twice? Why or why not?

2. Lying is a common theme is Wolff’s stories. Identify places in the story where there’s a disconnect between what the characters think/feel/assert, and the reality of their situations. Are the characters actually lying? Deluding themselves?

3. In what ways are Kenny, Frank, and Tub products of our society?

4. Discuss the three principal characters in this story. How are they motivated? Who is the most sympathtic? What themes are suggested by their interactions?

5. When asked to list his favorite books, writer David Sedaris had this to say about In the Garden of the North American Martyrs: "[Wolff’s] stories are like parables, and after reading one I always vow to become a better person." Assuming that Sedaris subscribes to the dictionary definition of parable, how is "Hunters…" like a parable?

parable
(n): a usually short fictitious story that illustrates a moral attitude or a religious principle 

WRITING

When you finish your questions/discussion, I would like you to begin planning for your first major writing piece. You can do one of the following:

• Choose another prompt provided on Monday
• Develop/expand the prompt you already started
• Generate your own idea for a story
• You can begin writing or work on creating characters, just be productive!

HOMEWORK

Read John Wideman's Fever (pgs. 692-696)