How to Discuss a Story. Бунеева И.М - 57 стр.

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        Student 2: Me neither! The story is very dynamic and involving although it
looks so simple. I guess, it looks so simple because of the author’s style. The action
moves at a fast pace and there is no descriptive writing.
        Student 1: I absolutely agree with you. The author mostly uses narration to
depict the main characters, to describe the setting, to create the atmosphere of the
story.
        Student 2: Absolutely. I would say, the language of the story is rather plain,
there’re practically no stylistic devices, and this is probably a stylistic device in
itself, this simplicity makes the story closer to real life, it shows that something of
the kind could happen to any person. The author doesn’t give detailed descriptions
of the characters of this story, which is not typical of O’Henry who is known for
bright and detailed descriptions that let us judge about the characters. We mostly
judge about the characters of the story by their actions. By the way, I have noticed
that Pilkins is the only person the author gives any description at all! I wonder why!
        Student 1: Well, perhaps this is done to attract the reader’s attention to him
and suggest he is the key figure in the story.
        Student 2: Yes, perhaps. I also think there is an ironic contrast between his
actions and thoughts and what other people think of him. Perhaps this is the only
ironic element in the story.
        Student 1: Oh, no, I can’t agree with you here! I think, the “fairy-tale” happy
end is an ironic element, too. We all know that in real life things tend to turn out in
a less happy way.
        Student 2: That’s true. The story does sound like a kind of fairy-tale, simple
and original. The title “Love Drug” adds to this impression. It suggests that love can
be inspired with a special medicine. However, there’s a well-knows proverb which
teaches that love cannot be inspired or influenced, the heart either loves or not.
        Student 1: Oh, yes, the idea of a love drug sounds quite impossible. Do you
think the author sympathizes with any of the characters?
        Student 2: Well, I can’t say for sure. The story is told through the author’s
eyes and he doesn’t show his attitude towards the characters. We follow the plot
and make our own conclusions. Don’t you think so?
        Student 1: Oh, I do. I think the story really helps understand human nature
and psychology. To my mind, the characters of this story are just like many people
we meet every day. For example, Jim is young and passionate, silly because he is
hopelessly in love, he is ready to trust anyone he knows. He is romantic, that’s why
he plans to elope with Rosie instead of trying to come to terms with Rosie’s father.
Luckily, his love is wise. He realises that Rosie loves him and it is impossible to
make her love him more.
        Student 2: Good point! I absolutely agree. As for Pilkins, he is a real
businessman, his common sense is stronger than romantic feelings such as
friendship and love. He is selfish, he wants Rosie to be his wife no matter if she