The central idea is that man is responsible for defining his own sense of honor. A clear choice between right and wrong does not always exist. The safest decision is not always the easiest to live with. What Dubus seems to be commenting on is the transformation of man as he grows older. At an older age, you learn to accept things you cannot change.

The main character is Mitchell. He is round and dynamic. He is round because the story revolves around him. His thoughts and actions are crucial to the story and are described in great detail. He is dynamic because he changes from a relatively carefree, self-assured man into an impetuous man who feels old and becomes consumed

Dubus uses all three methods of indirect characterization in describing Mitchell; he uses words, actions, and thoughts. An example of his words is "I should have stopped it. I think I could have stopped it." An example of his actions comes after the bikers had left the rape scene, "Then he picked up her sneakers from the floor and placed them beside her and squatted near her face...." An example of his thoughts comes after the bikers leave, "He wanted to speak to her and touch her, hold a hand or press her brow, but he could not."

with guilt. After witnessing the rape: "He did not know what it was like to be very old ... but he assumed it was like this: fatigue beyond relieving by rest, by sleep."

The tone of "The Curse" is sad and complex. The most important element contributing to this tone is limited omniscient point of view. By limiting the focus on Mitchell, passing any type of judgement on him becomes difficult. Instead, the reader is able to focus on his emotions. The tone relates to the central idea because the situation is sad and complex in that Mitchell will always struggle with the decision he made.

This is a very good story. The author is effective at creating a situation that is plausible. The most enjoyable part of the story is the central idea. Dubus' writing style helps the reader explore the true experience and emotions surrounding his character. By creating such a dynamic story around Mitchell, Dubus demands an emotional response. An

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Approximate Word count = 1000
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)