Essay Questions

What is the main theme in the stories ‘Gazebo’ and ‘The Fling’?

The stories 'Gazebo' and 'The Fling' talk about unfaithful husbands who are not getting satisfied with their wives. These husbands are depicted as unfaithful because they are having affairs with other women. Infidelity is the main cause of the divorce discussed in the story 'The Fling'. According to Raymond Carver, unfaithfulness in marriage can be equated to unethical behavior because it destroys the institution of marriage.

What is the vital lesson the reader learns from the story ‘Why Don’t You Dance’?

The significance of letting go is the most vital lesson the reader learns from the story ‘Why Don’t You Dance’. Raymond Carver is stressing on the reason why people should let the past go and embrace the future. Clinging onto the past can derail an individual and bring more sorrow instead of moving on with life. The main character in the story ‘Why Don’t You Dance’ has decided to accepted his past and made up his mind to move on.

What is the figurative connotation of the short story ‘Gazebo’?

The short story 'Gazebo' is dramatic because it draws a reflection of the unfaithful couple. The story represents the once peaceful and romantic relationship between the owners of the motel. However, things later take a drastic turn because the husband ends up being unfaithful. The wife becomes suicidal on realizing that the husband is cheating on her. At some point, she decides to throw herself from the top of the building. As she tries to jump, the husband takes hold of her and they start reflecting on their love life and journey.