Short Story Reflection

1.What kind of details does Carver choose to describe the “place?”

The details are pretty descriptive. In my mind, I can really visualize this guys place. It seems like his own personal den. Carver describes the placement of all the objects in his room. A yellow muslin cloth, a model television on a coffee table, a wall clock, and a sofa. The little details he uses that may seem insignificant really help the reader see this place their own way. For example, he says “A yellow muslin cloth, much too large, a gift, covered the table and hung down over the sides.” This sounds way more interesting than just “A yellow cloth sat on the table.”

2.What do the following passages tell you about the place? 

“The girl sat on the bed. She pushed off her shoes and lay back. She thought she could see a star.” 

“Lights came on in the houses up and down the street.”



Something about this place brings a feeling of comfort, belonging, and welcome. This bed, although still in good condition, has survived many years. It has stories of its own and been different places.  Its story is about to change though once it is brought into this young couples life.

 3.Now look at the passages that you chose. How do they talk about the place? Why are they important or unimportant? 


                  -“Now and then a car slowed and people stared.  But no one stopped. 
  It occurred to him that he wouldn't, either.”

                  This part honestly made me kinda sad. This guy seems to be lonely, but in a way he is at peace with that. He has already lived his life and seen many things. He wants to pass on his experiences with others now.  And by doing so, he can sell some of his memories with new people.

                  

   -"Those people over there, they're watching," she said. 
  "It's okay," the man said.  "It's my place," he said.

He doesn’t live his life in fear that others will judge him. He drinks as he chooses, and dances where he wants. He seems to have a care-free attitude. Without this feeling of openness, I don’t think this couple would have opened up so much and danced/drank with him. His comforting vibes allowed the couple to feel at ease and make bids with this man they may never see again, but also never forget.