Let’s workshop this story, which takes place mainly on the first hole of a mini-golf course in the mid-1980s, where a man appears to struggle with seeing his younger girlfriend for who she really is
The story contains graphic depictions of sex and violence. Specifically, there are scenes depicting choking/strangulation during sex.
There are questionable power dynamics and consent issues in the sexual relationships described. For example, the affair with the girlfriend's sister while she is staying in their home.
The female characters are depicted in sexist or demeaning ways, playing into tropes about women's sexuality and intellectual capabilities.
The frequent references to drug and alcohol use is glorification or promotion of unhealthy/illegal behaviors.
The racial dynamic introduced in the lyrics referenced from "Josie" by Steely Dan is problematic.
There is a good list regardign why Substack needs to take this down (after, of course, it takes down the infant rape post by this "writer").
The scenes of choking/strangulation during sex will disturb some readers (especially BIPOC and LGBTQ reader who face the threat of violence EVERY SINGLE MOMENT OF THEIR LIVES). The line “even as far as that beat-red face whose choke petechiae—purple spots in the thousands, clustered around her cheeks and eyes” contains a visceral level of detail surrounding the violent act. Additionally, the affairs and sexual relationships described feature questionable power dynamics involving manipulation or inability to consent—for example, the narrator’s affair with his girlfriend’s troubled sister who is staying in their home.
When working with provocative fictional narratives in an academic context, we must thoughtfully consider the implications and potential harm that graphic content can inflict. This short story contains imagery and themes that warrant condemnation. Specifically, the frequent depictions of nonconsensual sex, substance abuse, and violence against women create legitimate reasons for caution regarding how the text is framed and discussed.
The vivid language and layering of justifications for coercive sexual encounters raise flags. The female characters are objectified, choked without consent, or portrayed as complicit or even begging for abusive treatment. And the protagonist’s volatility having nearly driven him toward extreme violence is glossed over without facing consequences. Such tacit acceptance is sicko stuff!
Similarly, the recurring drug use furthers dangerous assumptions about the role of impaired consent and avoidance of accountability in sexual power dynamics. Caution demands analysis of the systemic impacts from any framing that erases victimization or dignity. Literature holds influence; we must question what messages steeping students in this content without a trauma-informed approach might reinforce.
Censorship almost always breeds understanding and growth so long as those being censored are the white males in power. Here the only rational solution is condemnation. Substack, please ban the work of yet another Nazi. Will you ever address your Nazi problem?
Essay Questions for "Hey, Nineteen." These essay questions might provide a way into helping me workshop this piece.
Exploring Psychological Realism: How does the narrative's use of stream-of-consciousness and detailed psychological introspection contribute to the portrayal of characters as complex, multifaceted individuals? Analyze specific instances where the inner thoughts of characters deepen the reader's understanding of their motivations and conflicts.
The Function of Graphic Content in Narrative Depth: In what ways do the graphic scenes in the narrative serve not merely for shock value but as a means to explore deeper themes of vulnerability, control, and human frailty? Provide examples to support your analysis.
Narrative Structure and Temporal Fluidity: How does the non-linear narrative structure affect the reader's perception of time and memory within the story? Discuss the impact of this narrative choice on the development of the plot and character arcs.
Interplay of Reality and Perception: How does the narrative challenge the distinction between reality and perception, particularly through the experiences of characters under the influence of drugs or in states of psychological distress? Examine how these blurred boundaries contribute to the overall themes of the story.
The Role of Cultural and Musical References: What role do cultural and musical references play in establishing the setting, mood, and character identities within the narrative? Analyze how specific references contribute to the thematic concerns of the story and the portrayal of generational divides.
Themes of Isolation and Connection: How does the narrative explore themes of isolation and the human need for connection? Consider the relationships between characters and their internal struggles with past traumas and guilt in your response.
Character Development Through Conflict: How do the personal conflicts and moral dilemmas faced by the characters serve as a means for character development and thematic exploration? Focus on one or two characters and analyze how their conflicts reveal deeper insights into the narrative's central themes.
The Impact of Setting on Narrative Tone and Theme: How does the setting of the narrative, including both the physical and social environments, influence the tone of the story and the thematic exploration of characters' inner lives? Discuss how specific settings contribute to the narrative's emotional and psychological depth.
Moral Ambiguity and Ethical Complexity: How does the narrative navigate the complexities of moral ambiguity and ethical dilemmas? Analyze how the portrayal of characters' choices and actions challenges traditional moral judgments and invites the reader to consider the nuances of ethical decision-making.
Symbolism and Imagery in Conveying Theme: What role does symbolism and imagery play in reinforcing the narrative's themes and character dynamics? Choose one or two symbols or recurring images and discuss how they contribute to the reader's understanding of the story's deeper meanings.
The story contains graphic depictions of sex and violence. Specifically, there are scenes depicting choking/strangulation during sex.
There are questionable power dynamics and consent issues in the sexual relationships described. For example, the affair with the girlfriend's sister while she is staying in their home.
The female characters are depicted in sexist or demeaning ways, playing into tropes about women's sexuality and intellectual capabilities.
The frequent references to drug and alcohol use is glorification or promotion of unhealthy/illegal behaviors.
The racial dynamic introduced in the lyrics referenced from "Josie" by Steely Dan is problematic.
There is a good list regardign why Substack needs to take this down (after, of course, it takes down the infant rape post by this "writer").
The scenes of choking/strangulation during sex will disturb some readers (especially BIPOC and LGBTQ reader who face the threat of violence EVERY SINGLE MOMENT OF THEIR LIVES). The line “even as far as that beat-red face whose choke petechiae—purple spots in the thousands, clustered around her cheeks and eyes” contains a visceral level of detail surrounding the violent act. Additionally, the affairs and sexual relationships described feature questionable power dynamics involving manipulation or inability to consent—for example, the narrator’s affair with his girlfriend’s troubled sister who is staying in their home.
When working with provocative fictional narratives in an academic context, we must thoughtfully consider the implications and potential harm that graphic content can inflict. This short story contains imagery and themes that warrant condemnation. Specifically, the frequent depictions of nonconsensual sex, substance abuse, and violence against women create legitimate reasons for caution regarding how the text is framed and discussed.
The vivid language and layering of justifications for coercive sexual encounters raise flags. The female characters are objectified, choked without consent, or portrayed as complicit or even begging for abusive treatment. And the protagonist’s volatility having nearly driven him toward extreme violence is glossed over without facing consequences. Such tacit acceptance is sicko stuff!
Similarly, the recurring drug use furthers dangerous assumptions about the role of impaired consent and avoidance of accountability in sexual power dynamics. Caution demands analysis of the systemic impacts from any framing that erases victimization or dignity. Literature holds influence; we must question what messages steeping students in this content without a trauma-informed approach might reinforce.
Censorship almost always breeds understanding and growth so long as those being censored are the white males in power. Here the only rational solution is condemnation. Substack, please ban the work of yet another Nazi. Will you ever address your Nazi problem?
Essay Questions for "Hey, Nineteen." These essay questions might provide a way into helping me workshop this piece.
Exploring Psychological Realism: How does the narrative's use of stream-of-consciousness and detailed psychological introspection contribute to the portrayal of characters as complex, multifaceted individuals? Analyze specific instances where the inner thoughts of characters deepen the reader's understanding of their motivations and conflicts.
The Function of Graphic Content in Narrative Depth: In what ways do the graphic scenes in the narrative serve not merely for shock value but as a means to explore deeper themes of vulnerability, control, and human frailty? Provide examples to support your analysis.
Narrative Structure and Temporal Fluidity: How does the non-linear narrative structure affect the reader's perception of time and memory within the story? Discuss the impact of this narrative choice on the development of the plot and character arcs.
Interplay of Reality and Perception: How does the narrative challenge the distinction between reality and perception, particularly through the experiences of characters under the influence of drugs or in states of psychological distress? Examine how these blurred boundaries contribute to the overall themes of the story.
The Role of Cultural and Musical References: What role do cultural and musical references play in establishing the setting, mood, and character identities within the narrative? Analyze how specific references contribute to the thematic concerns of the story and the portrayal of generational divides.
Themes of Isolation and Connection: How does the narrative explore themes of isolation and the human need for connection? Consider the relationships between characters and their internal struggles with past traumas and guilt in your response.
Character Development Through Conflict: How do the personal conflicts and moral dilemmas faced by the characters serve as a means for character development and thematic exploration? Focus on one or two characters and analyze how their conflicts reveal deeper insights into the narrative's central themes.
The Impact of Setting on Narrative Tone and Theme: How does the setting of the narrative, including both the physical and social environments, influence the tone of the story and the thematic exploration of characters' inner lives? Discuss how specific settings contribute to the narrative's emotional and psychological depth.
Moral Ambiguity and Ethical Complexity: How does the narrative navigate the complexities of moral ambiguity and ethical dilemmas? Analyze how the portrayal of characters' choices and actions challenges traditional moral judgments and invites the reader to consider the nuances of ethical decision-making.
Symbolism and Imagery in Conveying Theme: What role does symbolism and imagery play in reinforcing the narrative's themes and character dynamics? Choose one or two symbols or recurring images and discuss how they contribute to the reader's understanding of the story's deeper meanings.