Dry September

Compare and contrast representations of Southern aristocracy in “Dry September” with one other short story written by William Faulkner. Focus on systems of oppression, societal order, and systemic racism.

Analyze the symbolism of dust and heat in the story, using textual evidence to explain how they relate to decay, violence, and racial tension.

What types of masculinity are described in “Dry September”? Analyze how John McLendon, Will Mayes, and the narrator embody or challenge traditional gender norms. What are their society’s expectations of male behavior?