Classic American Short Stories | Reading Pointers for Sharper Insights

Reading Pointers for Sharper Insights

To fully comprehend and appreciate this story, consider the following concepts:

Characters:

Anderson calls his characters “grotesques”—people with shattered dreams who end up isolated and disillusioned. The story centers on Wing Biddlebaum, who was once a teacher—fulfilled and happy. The other important character is George Willard—a man who has found qualities in Wing worth befriending.

Mood:

Mood is important in the story. Anderson describes Wing's home out beyond the town where he vigilantly watches for his only friend George Willard. How does Anderson emphasize Wing's isolation as he waits? How does Anderson sustain this mood throughout the story?

Images:

There are two recurring images: dreams and dreaming and expressions related to birds. Note how often these occur within the story. Both images have the idea of flying or going beyond this mundane existence.

Symbols:

  • Wing Biddlebaum represents all mankind who have unresolved hopes and dreams.

  • Wing's hands are actually a metonymy, representing the part for the whole; he uses his hands to express the emotion or passion in his heart, but he must keep them under control, the same way that he must keep his inner feelings under control.

  • Winesburg, Ohio represents every other American small town citizen with lost hopes and aspirations.

Unique Elements in Anderson's Story:

  • Wing's speech to Willard reveals the basic message or theme of Anderson's story. How is Wing himself thwarted in the advice he gives Willard? What do Wing's hands contribute in his presentation of his message to Willard?

  • Flashback: The reader discovers Wing's past. Analyze how this knowledge affects every area of Wing's life, especially the use of his hands.

  • Content: Anderson presents in a subtle, yet honest, way about content that was taboo in his day. He is not endorsing a lifestyle, but Anderson is making a statement about hysteria in light of the rumors.

  • Plot: The hands, as the title proposes, is the central focus of the story. In what ways can the use of Wing's hands as a teacher be interpreted? Evaluate the townsmen's misunderstanding and over-reaction to Wing's actions toward his pupils.

  • George Willard is an important character. He is the catalyst in allowing Wing to express his deepest ideas and emotions, and he helps the reader to sympathize and empathize with the protagonist.