Book Review: The Lottery by author Shirley Jackson, By Nishanth Balaji

 Book Review: The Lottery by Shirley Jackson

By: Nishanth Balaji

Shirley Jackson’s The Lottery is a haunting short story that delves into the dark side of tradition and societal conformity. First published in 1948 in The New Yorker, the story shocked readers with its chilling portrayal of a small town engaging in a ritualistic sacrifice under the guise of tradition. In this review, I will explore the story’s themes, Jackson’s masterful use of symbolism, and its enduring relevance as a critique of blind adherence to customs.

The Power of Tradition

At the heart of The Lottery is the theme of blind tradition. The story begins innocuously, with villagers gathering for an annual event in a seemingly idyllic setting. However, as the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that the lottery is a gruesome ritual in which a community member is stoned to death to ensure a bountiful harvest.

Jackson’s critique of tradition is scathing. She shows how rituals, when followed without questioning their morality or purpose, can perpetuate violence and injustice. The villagers’ reluctance to question the lottery highlights the dangers of conformity and the human capacity to normalize cruelty.

Symbolism and Foreshadowing

Jackson’s use of symbolism is a key element of the story’s impact. The black box, for instance, represents the weight of tradition and its resistance to change. Despite being old and shabby, the box is preserved because it is central to the ritual, symbolizing how outdated practices can persist simply because they are entrenched in a community’s identity.

Foreshadowing is another technique Jackson employs to build suspense. Subtle hints, such as the boys collecting stones and the villagers’ nervous laughter, create an atmosphere of unease. By the time the violent climax arrives, the reader is both horrified and struck by the inevitability of the events.

A Commentary on Human Nature

The Lottery serves as a commentary on the darker aspects of human nature. Jackson examines how people can commit heinous acts when they are justified by tradition or societal norms. The story raises questions about individual responsibility and the moral courage needed to challenge unjust practices.

The participation of every member of the community, including children, underscores the extent to which societal conditioning can override empathy. This universality of involvement makes the story all the more chilling, as it suggests that anyone can become complicit in evil under the right circumstances.

Personal Reflections

Reading The Lottery was a profoundly unsettling experience. Jackson’s ability to turn a seemingly ordinary setting into a stage for horror left a lasting impression on me. The story made me reflect on the traditions and practices in my own life and whether they are followed out of genuine value or unexamined habit.

One of the most impactful aspects of the story was its portrayal of collective complicity. It challenged me to consider how societal norms can influence individual actions and the importance of questioning authority and tradition.

Conclusion

The Lottery by Shirley Jackson is a powerful and thought-provoking story that continues to resonate with readers. Its exploration of tradition, human nature, and the consequences of conformity serves as a cautionary tale for all societies. For anyone interested in literature that provokes deep reflection, this story is a must-read.

Works Cited

Jackson, Shirley. The Lottery. The New Yorker, 1948.