Paul's Case

Throughout the story, Cather uses free indirect discourse, meaning that she neither resorts to the first person (using “I”), nor does she preface Paul’s expressions with “Paul thought” or “Paul said.” What added dynamisms and insights does this provide? How would the story be different with a first-person point of view?

How does Cather’s own biographical overlap with Paul’s work into an understanding of the story? Does knowing the details of her life enhance or diminish the power of the story?

Paul has a very intense relationship with theater, music, art, and performance—what function do these entities serve for Paul? Further, while he desires to engage with these things, he harbors no desire to act, perform, or play music; he wants only to be in the company of those that do. What do you make of this desire of Paul’s?

Besides flowers, doorways, and snow, what other recurring motifs and symbols appear throughout the story? What do they represent?

Can you provide textual support for the interpretation of the story as a parable of a gay man? In particular, what do you make of Paul’s time with the Yale freshman? Does this interpretation amplify the story’s power?

Is there a discernible difference in prose style between how Cather writes about Paul’s time on Cordelia Street versus in New York? If so, what is the difference, and what does it suggest?

Do you think Paul has any psychiatric conditions such as narcissism? Why or why not? Does such a psychiatric interpretive lens enhance or detract from one’s experience or understanding of the story?

Are the story’s vibrantly depicted flowers an effective or persuasive symbol for Paul’s life? Why or why not?