“The Curse” by Andre Dubus is about Mitchell Hayes, a forty-nine year old bartender who is witness to a rape. The rape occurs right before closing when five bikers rape a young woman while holding Mitchell at bay. After the rape, Mitchell is distraught over his decision of not making a stronger attempt to help the girl. Police, family and friends try to comfort Mitchell by telling him he made the right decision. However, he …showed first 75 words of 955 total…

…showed last 75 words of 955 total…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. Another positive aspect of this story is that repeated readings yield new meanings. Overall, there were no unlikable or negative aspects to the story. Dubus uses all the elements to achieve a challenging and illuminating story.