silhouette of a man with one eye open hiding in the jungle

The Most Dangerous Game

by Richard Edward Connell

Start Free Trial

Student Question

What might Rainsford's note to Zaroff say if Zaroff had killed Rainsford?

Quick answer:

Rainsford would tell Zaroff that his whole plan is to make Rainsford mad, and thus Zaroff is the one who has lost. Dear General Zaroff, I am writing to you because I am curious if you are reading this letter. If you are, then you have "won" your game. You might even feel a sense of accomplishment, but I want you to know the facts before you boast any further. Even a little contemplation will show that you did not win. In fact, you cheated every step of the way. Consider the facts. First, when we first arrived on your island, I thought that it would be fair game: man against man with only our wits to help us.

Expert Answers

An illustration of the letter 'A' in a speech bubbles

Here is what I think Rainsford would say. 

Dear General, 

If you are reading this letter, you have "won" your game. You might even feel a sense of accomplishment, but I want you to know the facts before you boast any further. Even a little contemplation will show that you did not win. In fact, you cheated every step of the way. Consider the facts. 

First, you had the advantage. You know the land; its your island. As a military man, you know how important this point is. Second, you had a gun, whereas I only had a knife. How can you say that this is fair? You also had dogs to help you, not to mention that giant, Ivan. So, if you want to call this a game, then it is an unfair one. So, don't be too proud of your victory. In such a situation, a victory for you is actually an embarrassment. 

Second, such a game only shows one thing, your madness. You are deranged and you do not even know it. I pity you. In flashes of lucidity, you will see that you are a murderer and a monster of a man. 

From one man to another, you are neither a hunter nor an honorable human. 

Sincerely,
Rainsford

Get Ahead with eNotes

Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.

Get 48 Hours Free Access
Approved by eNotes Editorial