Fiction Essay Assignment

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Liberty University *

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102-D30

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Arts Humanities

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Dec 6, 2023

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1 Fiction Essay Berreka B. Franklin Department of Social Work, Liberty University Professor Spring Zuidema ENGL102: Composition and Literature November 13, 2023

2 A Comparative Analysis of "The Lottery" by Shirley Jackson and "The Rocking-Horse Winner" by D.H. Lawrence In the vast and enchanting realm of fiction, where narratives weave tales of human behavior, societal norms, and individual aspirations, stories function as mirrors reflecting the intricate mosaic of human experience. This essay embarks on an extensive exploration of the themes of blind conformity and the perilous pursuit of luck by immersing itself in the profound narratives of two compelling short stories: Shirley Jackson's "The Lottery" and D.H. Lawrence's "The Rocking-Horse Winner." At the heart of this analysis lies a meticulous examination of conflict, characterization, setting, theme, and tone, aspiring to uncover the intricate connections between these narratives and lay bare the stark realities they bring to light. "The Lottery" thrusts readers into a community entangled in a chilling tradition—the lottery. The unswerving commitment of the townspeople to this ritual serves as a potent testament to the pervasive influence of societal expectations. As the lottery unfolds, fundamental conflicts surface, creating tension that crescendos into a shocking climax, leaving both characters and readers in a state of disbelief. The narrative exposes the palpable societal pressure and fear instilled in the townspeople, casting a stark light on the absence of critical thinking as they blindly adhere to established norms. Contrastingly, "The Rocking-Horse Winner" delves into the treacherous pursuit of luck on an individual level. The protagonist, Paul, propelled by the desire to appease his materialistic mother, adopts an unconventional method to gain luck—the rocking horse. The narrative intricately weaves the connection between the rocking horse and luck, unraveling the

3 consequences of Paul's obsessive quest. While the story centers on an individual, it simultaneously serves as a critique of societal values and the insatiable pursuit of material wealth. A closer examination unveils pronounced contrasts between the two stories. "The Lottery" places emphasis on societal conformity, depicting a community bound by tradition, while "The Rocking-Horse Winner" zooms in on an individual's relentless pursuit. The role of tradition in "The Lottery" stands in stark contrast to the impact of modernity in "The Rocking- Horse Winner." Jackson and Lawrence employ distinct narrative tones and styles to convey their messages, with "The Lottery" enveloped in a chilling, detached tone and "The Rocking-Horse Winner" adopting a more intimate and psychologically probing approach. The major themes of blind conformity in "The Lottery" and the perilous pursuit of luck in "The Rocking-Horse Winner" intertwine, forming a common thread that delves into societal and individual struggles. Both stories grapple with the consequences of adhering to societal expectations without a critical examination of their morality. The pursuit of luck, whether through tradition or an individual quest, emerges as a cautionary tale, shedding light on the potential for tragedy when driven by external pressures. In conclusion, the comparative analysis of "The Lottery" and "The Rocking-Horse Winner" provides profound insights into the intricate layers of the human condition. Despite their distinct plots and characters, these narratives converge in their exploration of societal expectations and individual desires. As readers navigate the conflicts, characters, and settings, they are compelled to reflect on the broader implications of blind conformity and the pursuit of luck in society. The power of literature lies not just in storytelling but in its profound ability to provoke thought and stimulate discussions on timeless human dilemmas. Through the lenses of

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4 conflict, characterization, setting, theme, and tone, these stories resonate as cautionary tales, urging readers to critically examine the societal norms that shape their lives. In their convergence, "The Lottery" and "The Rocking-Horse Winner" become mirrors reflecting the complexities and paradoxes inherent in the human experience, inviting readers to delve deeper into the profound questions these narratives pose, thereby enriching their understanding of the human condition and the intricate dance between societal expectations and individual aspirations.

5 References Jackson, Shirley. “The Lottery.” The New Yorker , The New Yorker, 18 June 1948, www.newyorker.com/magazine/1948/06/26/the-lottery . Lawrence, D. H. “The Rocking-Horse Winner.” Google Books , Dramatic Publishing, 1966, books.google.co.ke/books? hl=en&lr=&id=2iEAH87TBDIC&oi=fnd&pg=PA3&dq=Lawrence. Accessed 5 Nov. 2023.

Fiction Essay Assignment

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