The Lottery

I read something the other day that reminded me of one of the most chilling stories that I had ever read. I read the story when I was in high school English. It was The Lottery by Shirley Jackson. I can see why the short story made it on the ban list all those years ago. I suppose you could argue by today's standards, The Lottery is like a tame kitten playing with a ball of string but the story still sends chills down my spine to this day.

If you haven't read it, you can read the story here. I think what creeps me out is everybody's tone. Everybody acts like its a normal thing. People are laughing, giggling, and playing. Knowing what had to pass. I think the central theme in the story is how the victim wasn't against the system until it affected her. This is something that happens on a regular basis even today. Even though it creeps me out. I still like the story. Reminds me to think of others, I suppose.