The Midnight Society: "The Monkey's Paw" Discussion

I hope you enjoyed this week's reading of "The Monkey's Paw." And I hope you still have a few chills running down your spine from reading that last line, "The streetlight opposite shone on a quiet and deserted road." {shudder}

Certainly the theme of "be careful what you wish for" is a universal one, and perhaps you have some examples from your own life that prove this to be true. I'm sure we can all also think of a few other stories we've read or seen that show what a disaster wishing can sometimes be. 

Here are some discussion questions I'd love for you to consider! And, of course, if you'd just like to let me know how you liked the story, how it made you feel, and what your favorite parts were, I'd love to hear that also! 

Submitted for the approval of The Midnight Society: our discussion on W. W. Jacobs's chiller "The Monkey's Paw." 

1. What are a couple of hints early in the story that the monkey's paw might be dangerous?

2. When the "well dressed" stranger wearing a "silk hat of shiny newness" appears at their home, what foreshadowing clues are provided that hint that the message that he brings will not be a positive one?

3. Why might Mr. White say that to bring back their son would be “foolish and wicked”?

4. What did Mr. White wish for for his third and final wish?

5. Do you think Mr. White did the right thing with his final wish?

I look forward to hearing what you think! I will see you back on Monday for our fourth story, and my favorite short story of all time, "The Most Dangerous Game."