In my previous post I stated that their is no enforcement of the “The Lottery’s” stoning process, however their is a controlling factor that keeps this tradition alive. Why is it that Mr. Summer’s, who acts the most nonchalant, continues with this practice? It is true that Mr. Summers may have been born with the conditioning of a child growing up to this but the countless cries for help and despair of the chosen target did not seem to phase him. Being a wealthy man, I feel Jackson symbolized this character to represent the skewed big wigged politicians in society, who are able to manipulate their people. This Orwellian situation of the people influencing the politician and the politician effecting the people creates Jackson’s interpretation of Orwell’s nightmare of a misguided mass.
Since birth the children are shown to associate themselves and even participate in the stoning of the unfortunate victim. The oldest member, Old Man Warner, is even shown to have fully accepted this and referred to anyone who questioned it as young crazy fools. The reference to young people and the fact that the children are exposed the practice is interesting when Mr. Summer’s does not have any kids. This indication could be compared to a politician’s inside information even if it juxtaposes to what they say or feel. By being shown to not have a child, Mr. Summers is shown to not be able to bring existence into this world.
However, just because Mr. Summer knows it is wrong, does not mean he would stop. In business, many corporate leaders usually care more about their profits and less on the workers. The casualties in business can represent the stoned victims who are helpless to the customs. Because Mr. Summer’s does not have a child, many families grieve for him which adds to his qualification. With this in mind a long with his nonchalant way, could he really be deceiving us?
-Zachary Losak