M4: Take Analysis to a Story, Paul’s Case by Willa Cather
Directions:
First, read "Paul's Case" by Willa Cather. 9 boxes
As you read, think about what caused Paul's problems.
Part 1: Cause-Effect Cascade
Use the “WHY” cause-effect cascade below to help you analysis the story. Once you have completed the
chart, look over your cascade to be sure you have no logical fallacies (remember that including logical fallacies
weakens your position).
Paul’s attitude was usually not
serious and they way he dressed
offended the faculty members
and staff of the school.
This attitude and the way he
presented himself in school got
him suspended from school.
Paul goes to Carnegie Hall to
work. As he does, he gets
mesmerized by this one piece in
the hall.
This piece influenced Paul’s
actions in a positive way by
making his actions after seeing
the piece more enthusiastic.
Paul listens to a symphony at his
job and gets lost in the music.
The vibes from the music made
him feel full of life and positive.
When he finally lost the feelings,
he became depressed and sad
suddenly when reaching his
place. Ashamed of his current
living situations.
At school, Paul tells outrageous
lies about his close friendships
with the members of the theater
company. Paul’s attempts to
prove that he is better than his
classmates and teachers winds
up alienating him from them.
This results in the principal
reaching out to Paul’s father.
Saying that its for the best that
Paul is forbidden from coming
back to the school.
Part 2: Analyze the Story
Now, respond to the
following questions to help
you analyze the story. Don’t
forget to use evidence
from the text to support your
answers.
What did Paul want from the world?
To imitate or give off the same positive and perfect atmosphere that art and plays in theater would.
Why did Paul step in front of the train?
Paul realized that his way of life was horrible before he stepped out to New York and realized there’s more to the
world then living the way he was. But the thought of that was too much for him and he couldn’t take that reality.
Why did Paul steal the money and run away to New York?
His living area was not what he wanted as he felt out of place and hated the fact that everything was
living up to surreal expectations. So he took the money and ran to New York to live a luxurious life in
the big city.
What was wrong with Paul?
Paul has some sort of cognitive dissonance with the sad reality of his life. With this he is constantly
in denial about his life which causes him to act out.
Why was Paul expelled from school?
Because he spread rumors and lies about his close friends and classmates. Told to others that were
part of the theater. All of this caught the principal’s attention so he took care of it.
Why did he hate his teachers?
Because They were always criticizing and yelling at him about his getup. And Flippant attitude
towards them and in school.
Part 3: Reflection - Select one
What do you think will be the effect of Paul's suicide? On his father? His teachers? His theatre friends?
Imagine that you are among the teachers who meet with Paul (paragraphs 3-9). What action would you
recommend to resolve the problems he causes?
Do you sympathize with Paul? Explain your answer.