What is the significance of the diary format in “Diary of a Madman?” How does this form affect the story?

How does the preface to the madman’s story affect your reading of it?

Would you describe the madman as a good close reader? Of books? Of people?

What are the similarities and differences between the approaches to cannibalism in “Diary of a Madman” and “A Modest Proposal?”

In our anthology, both Lu Xun and Proust are grouped under “Modernism.” Do you see any connections between these two authors? Do you think modernism is an apt descriptor for both?