A critic has described modern authors like Raymond Carver, Ann Beattie, and Bobbie Ann Mason as "K-Mart realists." What do you interpret this term to mean? Do you find it to be an accurate description?

The South has given rise to numerous gifted female writers. Among the most well-known are Flannery O'Connor and Eudora Welty. Read a story from each of these authors and analyze how their views of the South differ from those of Mason.

Critics Hal Blythe and Charlie Sweet have likened Leroy Moffitt to the Fisher King from the Holy Grail legend. Research the Fisher King and discuss whether you believe this comparison is justified.