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?

Homework: For Friday, read Tobias Wolff's "Hunters in the Snow"--indirect and direct approaches to character description and development. Major themes? Symbols? Be prepared to discuss. P.S. If you did not turn in your quiz answers, Friday is the last day I will take them at a 10 point grade reduction.