Word Processor of the Gods

Along with the word processor, this is a story that features many meaningful objects. Choose three and analyze how they contribute to characterization and the story’s themes. You might choose to focus on the Magic 8 Ball, Seth’s guitar, the Amana freezer, or brands that King mentions like Wang, Twinkie, and Bud.

What is King’s opinion on technological progress in this story? Does he support it or reject it? What techniques does he use to convey his message?

How do Richard’s inner conflicts affect the external world? How do external factors affect his inner conflict? Analyze his inner conflict and support your analysis with textual evidence from the story.

While not a major character in the story, Nordhoff still plays an important role. How does he affect Richard and the meaning of the work as a whole? Support your analysis with textual evidence from the story.

How does Richard’s relationship with his family affect his decisions? Support your analysis with textual evidence from the story.

The story ends on a cliffhanger, with Richard about to start his new life. Do you think he will find fulfillment with his new family? Can you imagine unforeseen consequences for his actions? Write an essay that details your predictions based on evidence from the text.

Pick two characters that act as foils to each other in the story. Explain how King portrays them as well as the significance and meaning King is trying to relay through them. Support your analysis with textual evidence from the story.

What is the significance of Richard’s study? What does it mean to him and how does King show its importance to Richard to his audience?