"The Lottery"

In Shirley Jackson's, "The Lottery," one theme is Man's ability (and need) to rationalise generally unacceptable actions

     "The Lottery" makes a very good example of man's ability to rationalize unacceptable actions. We learn that the lottery is a tradition in their small town and the people show no remorse about it. Throughout the day, everyone is acting like this is a minor setback in their schedules for the day, not as if stoning an individual, that they could be very close to, is a big deal. Old Man Warner makes a point of saying "Lottery in June, corn be heavy soon," as if this is should be enough rationalization for condemning one of their very own townspeople. The unfortunate part is that, I guess, it is. 

     I'm from a town where farming is a major part of not only our economy, but our lifestyles. I know some crazy rituals that some farmers do simply because they think it helps the crops that season. I know one man that would pitch a tent in the middle of his field simply to "listen to the Earth" so that he could make a plan to best suit his ground. It may seem crazy to most, but he thinks it is the best thing he can do. Luckily, nobody is harmed in these tactics. I can relate to the thought of rituals helping crops grow, but to kill someone for them is beyond me.