And he himself was noting but a prism that refracted their lives. ... "And he himself was nothing but a prism that refracted their lives," (Ondaatje, pg.157) is a well-written metaphor that describes his relationship with his friends. ...

• Word Count: 3985
• Approx Pages: 16
• Grade Level: High School

The truth found in his writings is just too awe-inspiring when it comes to the rendering of those darker motives that drive us on. ... As the narrator begins to recount the occurrences that "...have terrified--have tortured--have destroyed [him]," (p.11) he reminds the reader that maybe "...some intellect more calm, more logical, and far less excitable than [his] own," (p.11) will perceive "...nothing more than an ordinary succession of very natural causes and effects," (p.11) contrary to his own belief. ...

• Word Count: 4324
• Approx Pages: 17
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: High School

Many critics note a shift in Carver's work between the publication of What We Talk About When We Talk About Love and Cathedral, and many believe that Carver reached the zenith of his career with this collection. ... "It was like nothing else in my life up to now," he tells the reader. ...

• Word Count: 11148
• Approx Pages: 45
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: High School