Hunters in the Snow, By Tobias Wolff (1981) Rating: 8.5/10 I enjoyed the dark irony and dark humor shown in this story. Each character seems foolish and silly, but when you find out who they are symbolizing, it's not as funny as before. Dirty realism reveals our inner flaws and enlightens us on how stupid we look from an omniscient perspective. And this is not a figure of particular minorities, but the big trend of selfishness or individualism that is rampant in recent society. What I found interesting was the cruelty of modern society as well. In the end, we see that both Tub and Frank are actually happy, or not upset at least. We know what they've done wrong, but we see how they are just moving on to the next path, laughing, and talking among the ones who lived. I think this story felt more refreshing since unlike typical men's problems happening in the 1980s (ex. swimmer or five-forty-eight), we can see individualism in our school, college admission, and within ours
Cathedral, By Raymond Carver (1981) Rating: 7.8/10 This was the most typical story that I've read so far. It entails a very moral and positive conclusion, which limits the readers to share their own opinion. Unlike themes that talk of reflection of society or vague complexity of reality, moral lessons like <Cathedral> have a clear answer sheet. It's like an undeniable fact that everyone has agreed upon. But one part that gave a little space for readers to enjoy and discuss was Carver's own style of writing with his use of literary devices. This was also typical a bit, since Carver chose to use some irony and proceed with the story in a very casual tone. But I believe some religious elements and the smooth transition of the husband realizing the theme is the reason why people enjoy this story. Therefore I give 7.8 out of 10, not a 7.