Challenge 231

Take a Deep Breath

In light of the Memmet’s name, explanations, and the curiously dependable nature of his computer contacts with Alan, we may be able to guess where Andy West’s “Meme” is headed. But doesn’t that raise other questions about the nature of memes? Are there any other stories in this or other issues that would might consider “memes” according to Memmet’s definition?
In what way does the “old woman” bring Mary B. McArdle’s “Retta Charlotte Again” to life? What would the play lack without that character as the chorus?
O. J. Anderson’s “Die Already” is one of his funniest Jack Creed adventures to date. What comic devices does O. J. use in this story?
What do you think might be the setting of Ian Cordingley’s “Here Today”? What might the grandmother’s story be? What is gained by the use of allusion and implication rather than explicit narrative?
What do you think of the terrible swimmer in Tom Smith’s “Off the Deep End”? What do the character’s seemingly strange, unrelated thoughts mean in terms of the story? The swimmer jumps into the pool, planning to sit on the bottom. How do we know that he will either remain there only a very short time or not come up again?
Tyger Valverde’s “Fraturday” seems to end where it began. Can you suggest another ending?
Does Prakash Kona’s “Subaltern” require familiarity with his other poems and works in order to be understood accurately?
Rewrite Kevin Ahearn’s “The Waterfall” as a short story rather than as an essay.
A note about the film review: The Hills Have Eyes can also be viewed as social and political criticism. What seems to be the basis for that interpretation? Do you think it’s justified or something of a stretch?

Responses welcome!