Essay Questions

How does Steven Millhauser use the character Sarabee to develop the literary device irony in The Knife Thrower and Other Stories?

Sarabee is an entrepreneur who is looking forward to making a big profit from his constructed pleasure park. People are eagerly waiting for the launching of the park so that they can take pleasure in the tremendous rides. However, it is ironic that slightly before the launching, the entire park is consumed by fire. This goes beyond the expectation of the public who were eagerly waiting to enjoy riding facilities in the park.

Which two dominant symbols does Steven Millhauser use in his book?

Firstly, the author uses the frog to symbolize very fertile women. In many societies, fertile women are referred to as frogs because of their ability to give birth to many children. In the book, Steven Millhauser writes that "A man is married to a frog.” Secondly, the author symbolizes knowledge using light. For instance, he explains that Kaspar says that his background was dark and that is why he did not get exposure to knowledge. However, he is currently out of that dark background and he is learning a lot because of exposure.

Does Steven Millhauser develop Mysticism as the major theme? Briefly explain.

Throughout the stories, the reader recognizes that most characters are in quest of sacred height. Nevertheless, the characters are not showing the deeds that should uplift their spiritual aspirations. In the story ‘Clair the Lune,’ the storyteller convenes with his female classmate and elopes with her into ecstasy. In the ‘Balloon Flight, 1870’ there is air travel with a specific function headed to an uninhabited place in France. However, it gets lost in the skies and fails to accomplish its mission. Lastly, in the 'Flying Carpets,' the little lad flies into the skies but loses vision and he does not hide his joy when he flies back safely. Therefore, it is evident from the three stories that the characters are seeking mysticism height.