Dr. Kosters, your analysis of Raymond Carver's "Cathedral" was absolutely captivating! Your insights into the characters, symbolism, and themes had me glued to the screen, eager to delve deeper into the complexities of this deceptively simple story. I loved how you highlighted the significance of seemingly mundane details, like the drawing of the cathedral and the act of shaving. These everyday moments became vessels for profound understanding and empathy.
This has been one of my favorite analysis of the semester. The manner in which you interpreted the drawing part of the story was quite astounding and changed my perspective. I think this story was very realistic and that Bub did experience a life altering moment. Though someone cannot change immediately I think this moment with Robert definitely had an impact on Bub and will affect him on the long-run. The idea that Bub had of Robert in the beginning of the story is developed by the end when they had the illuminating glimpse.
The story shoves in your face the idea that someone with less can understand so much more than someone with more, but also how still having a gift isn't always all it's made out to be. Some people will view something so superficially and believe that they've understood it whereas the person who doesn't tote around what they know can examine that very same thing and have a wildly more insightful response to it.
After reading the story, I had a few doubts but this lecture helped clarify them. I also liked how you explained the theme of dirty realism and how it is central to the story. This was really helpful because this has been the first time I have ever heard the term, even though the essence of the theme seems to have resonated with past stories that I have read. Also the analysis of Bub's character seems to be portrayed in a realistic way, personally correlating his character to people I know. It truly shows pessimism can affect a person's psyche, behavior, and interactions with others. However, the interaction with Robert in a way truly changed Bub towards the end. Although not fully, the reader can infer that Bub was definitely going through a change at the end of the story.
Great insights. Carver and Bukowski are the masters of dirty realism. Carver is able to capture the working class voice of his era to near perfection. I focused on the role of compassion in Cathedral in my analysis.
Absolutely! And, I think he captured it so perfectly because he was so brilliant, but also because he was part of that class. He understood it! Also, great topic to explore in the story!
This story more than everything else, can define the affect anyone can have on our lives in such a short time. Similar to the butterfly affect but for our lives. A small gesture of kindness can change a person's perspective on life in the long-run and I think that is what Robert did for Bub. People do not change that fast and that much but having a changed perspective on something no matter how small, can change your life in the long-run.
This lecture does an incredible job of explaining the effect others have on us. It is very interesting how until the blind man comes the artist is unaware of the circumstances and the effect/purpose of his art. This effect is later development through the whole story and the in the long run the overall growth of Robert is amazing. In real life this story is also portrayed and we can see how certain people we do not expect have a drastic impact on us.
❤️ thank you Dr. Whitney. I am very glad to have come across your insightful analysis. I hope you could make more videos for other short stories so I can continue to learn from you.
Hi, Janice! Yes, I definitely am! The short story is my favorite genre. I’ve got other videos on more literary works and will be posting more every week. If you’re subscribed, you’ll be notified of new postings. Thanks for your feedback!
This is a crazy story of trust and intention that very much captivated me. Another story that brought me to thoughts of my own life and made me compare situations in my mind with so many people to blame. This is one of those stories that has so many angles, you can really definitively say who the good and bad people are here, and ilike that.
I heard an audio version of this a couple years ago. Even then I was struck by his seeming hostility and fear about the man’s disability. But I eventually thought it was really the narrator’s own insecurities and inability to connect deeply with people or the world. I thought then it was really an epiphany he had in feeling profound emotion - about beautiful architecture, people and maybe god or spirituality. Now, in thinking about the narrator retrospectively telling the tale I think this even more - that he remains or feigns being dismissive, when in truth he is sharing a deeply moving and impactful experience that is beyond words. Yet still we understand it was incredible - whether he could ever admit or explain it, he shares it and allows us to see the process. That willingness seems an admission, perhaps the only one he is capable of making.
When I was reading this story I found myself very interested in what was happening. I also found myself thinking about how rude Bub was not only to Robert, but to his wife as well. He was very blunt, straight forward, judgmental, and close-minded about Robert coming over. As the story progresses, we can begin to notice Bub slightly opening up and becoming aware that he is only the way he is because he doesn't understand things. It isn't until they begin to draw were he becomes truly aware. I completely agree with you about this not being a life-changing moment for Bub, but that it has made him more aware. Despite his negative view towards Robert from the beginning of the story, Robert was able to help him and teach him.
This one was one of my favorites. I liked that for most of the story the narrator was a pessimist because of that dirty realism you spoke about. It felt authentic and I could see people I’ve known in the narrator’s place, not in a good way but a real way. When Robert has him draw the cathedral, he pulls the narrator out of his mundane existence with a simple act. It’s not this grandiose ending but a turning point. I do feel that Bub does change after that moment and it probably wasn’t significant at first, yet it was the very beginning of his journey with a new way of thinking/seeing. The reader was able to witness the beginning of his transformation.
Actually, can I tell you that there some are parts of the narrator (not all!) that I find so funny. I like his dry sarcasm so much. I feel that he changes, too. Why else would he even tell the story if it had no meaning to him?
I remember reading this story many years ago when I first began attending community college. I didn’t really remember much about it until I started reading and digging deeper into the story. One thing that always stood out to me in this story was how rude and disrespectful Bub was to his wife, and this was simply because he didn’t understand certain things. I think this is totally relatable in relationships and marriages nowadays. I think in some situations, spouses/significant others tend to give attitude or get upset with their loved ones when they are frustrated or don’t understand the reasoning behind a situation. This lecture did a pretty great job in explaining the meaning behind the title as well.
Interesting take Professor Koster’s on the Cathedral, I like how you gave a couple of quotes to better understand the story and the character it was about. I would also have to agree with you, these quotes did better tell the type of person Carver was. I would say that the overconsumption of liquor and weed probably did have some sort of effect on his actions and how the story was told. I didn’t necessarily like the story but I would say I enjoyed trying to understand its overall message.
This story, as well as the lecture explaining it, made me think of a friend I used to have while growing up. He was home schooled, and was extremely sheltered as a result. His views, attitudes, and perceptions on the world around him were all created by his upbringing. What he read, what he saw on TV, and what his parents told him. For that reason, I can imagine someone not having met a blind person in their life and I can imagine that person having all sorts of preconceived notions about them. Then, like the story, those notions are shattered once they actually meet a blind person. It reminds me of how we treat people experiencing homelessness. We have stereotypes in our heads, images of how we think they should look and how they behave. But they are literally just normal people, same as us.
I really enjoyed this story as it shows readers a new perspective on life and human connections. I believe that the drawing in the story is not just a visual representation but a shared experience that strengthens and transforms the meaning of the text. In a way the drawing is a bridge between the blind and those who can see, Robert and the narrator. Also, human connection is a major theme as the story since in the beginning the narrator showed prejudice and discomfort towards Robert, but in the end it all worked out.
I think this story in particular is relatable to a reader such as myself as I have a hard time finding meaning in a lot of things I am 'disinterested' in or don't know much about. Typically, I will act or behave pessimistically just as the narrator of this story does, which is an unfortunate thing to confess but the hard truth. Thinking of this story reminds me of how easily the actions of another person can influence the rest of our lives, for better or for worse.
The narrator learns for the first time that looking within can result in a deeper understanding of oneself and more knowledge about life in general when he and Robert sketch an image of a cathedral. The narrator of Cathedral reaches a turning point in the story when he realizes that there are other people's opinions on the world and begins to treat them with more kindness.
I enjoyed reading this story and watching your lecture. I believe that the drawing represents "true sight" to the narrator. He was meant to meet Robert because Robert had so much to teach him, whether he believes it or not. Maybe after this the narrator won't be so judgemental. I do think this is a happy ending.
I selected this story for my analysis of open-ended narratives, and upon reflection, I find that the ending left me somewhat disappointed. Initially, I struggled to fully grasp its conclusion. However, after rereading the text and reviewing your lecture, I now recognize that the clues necessary to understand the ending had been embedded throughout the story. I appreciate when stories challenge me to think critically and engage with the material, but at times, the level of complexity can feel overwhelming. Nevertheless, your lecture was instrumental in guiding me toward the conclusion I had been seeking, and it greatly aided my understanding of the story’s deeper meanings.
For someone who was born into & raised in poor/middle class, I have to say that I can relate to the disassociation. There are times in my life where I feel what's the point of working hard & not gain any sort of recognition? Why bother tearing down my walls to experience a new connection that may not last? I know that is the way of life, but honestly it's exhausting. There's moments where I just don't care, & I am okay with that. Now as for the narrator of the story, I do get annoyed of his wife. It's not like he asked for company to come on over. And if she's so annoyed with her husband why even stay with him in the first place?
I was pretty confused about this story but with your explanation of it, I now understand that the protagonist, Bub, viewed blind people as less than human. That is, until he met Robert and really spoke with him. He realized that much of what he believed was true, eg. blind people can’t smoke, was false, and I think this really helps him to get over what he thinks, and more importantly, to change his thinking. Hopefully, it’ll also result beyond the story with him treating his wife better, rather than being so close-minded and not very nice with her. This was shown with his annoyance about her wanting to have her blind friend, Robert, over for the night. With all of this said, I think the importance is to not go by stereotypes or biases, and to actually learn individuals. For this, you need to keep an open mind.
I have to admit that I had a hard time reading this story because the narrator was so unpleasant. I hope this experience he had with Robert made him a better, more tolerable guy.
That’s understandable! I think Carver hopes that you will be able to appreciate the experience that the narrator has with Robert at the end even more since the narrator is so closed off to practically everything.
I see Bub sort of like a feral cat who doesn't understand the goodness of others because he's never been given a reason to. I think his attitude throughout the story is that of fear. We fear the things we are scared to understand. We may have some negative attitudes towards people who do and harbor jealously. Certainly there was an impact in the end but I don't think this makes him a changed man. Instead it will be a gradual change because a strong foundation has been laid by Robert.
The narrator has a very negative perspective that lead to him having a closed off mentality. Being bitter is hardwork because you have to program your brain to be that way and kill any happiness that naturally occurs, it must be exhausting. I hate how he acted towards the blind man because he is incapable of feeling that way and is envious and he knows he is at fault. It seemed at the end he would have a redemption arc but unfortunately he did not and even though under the influences of drugs which sometimes help enlighten people he still stayed stubborn.
Dr. Kosters, your analysis of Raymond Carver's "Cathedral" was absolutely captivating! Your insights into the characters, symbolism, and themes had me glued to the screen, eager to delve deeper into the complexities of this deceptively simple story. I loved how you highlighted the significance of seemingly mundane details, like the drawing of the cathedral and the act of shaving. These everyday moments became vessels for profound understanding and empathy.
Thanks for sharing!
This has been one of my favorite analysis of the semester. The manner in which you interpreted the drawing part of the story was quite astounding and changed my perspective. I think this story was very realistic and that Bub did experience a life altering moment. Though someone cannot change immediately I think this moment with Robert definitely had an impact on Bub and will affect him on the long-run. The idea that Bub had of Robert in the beginning of the story is developed by the end when they had the illuminating glimpse.
Yeah, clearly he wouldn’t be telling the story if the experience had been meaningless to him.
The story shoves in your face the idea that someone with less can understand so much more than someone with more, but also how still having a gift isn't always all it's made out to be. Some people will view something so superficially and believe that they've understood it whereas the person who doesn't tote around what they know can examine that very same thing and have a wildly more insightful response to it.
Thanks for sharing!
After reading the story, I had a few doubts but this lecture helped clarify them. I also liked how you explained the theme of dirty realism and how it is central to the story. This was really helpful because this has been the first time I have ever heard the term, even though the essence of the theme seems to have resonated with past stories that I have read. Also the analysis of Bub's character seems to be portrayed in a realistic way, personally correlating his character to people I know. It truly shows pessimism can affect a person's psyche, behavior, and interactions with others. However, the interaction with Robert in a way truly changed Bub towards the end. Although not fully, the reader can infer that Bub was definitely going through a change at the end of the story.
Yes, sometimes context is very necessary to fully understanding literature!
Great insights. Carver and Bukowski are the masters of dirty realism. Carver is able to capture the working class voice of his era to near perfection. I focused on the role of compassion in Cathedral in my analysis.
Absolutely! And, I think he captured it so perfectly because he was so brilliant, but also because he was part of that class. He understood it! Also, great topic to explore in the story!
This story more than everything else, can define the affect anyone can have on our lives in such a short time. Similar to the butterfly affect but for our lives. A small gesture of kindness can change a person's perspective on life in the long-run and I think that is what Robert did for Bub. People do not change that fast and that much but having a changed perspective on something no matter how small, can change your life in the long-run.
Yes! It’s real human connection.
This lecture does an incredible job of explaining the effect others have on us. It is very interesting how until the blind man comes the artist is unaware of the circumstances and the effect/purpose of his art. This effect is later development through the whole story and the in the long run the overall growth of Robert is amazing. In real life this story is also portrayed and we can see how certain people we do not expect have a drastic impact on us.
Absolutely
❤️ thank you Dr. Whitney. I am very glad to have come across your insightful analysis. I hope you could make more videos for other short stories so I can continue to learn from you.
Hi, Janice! Yes, I definitely am! The short story is my favorite genre. I’ve got other videos on more literary works and will be posting more every week. If you’re subscribed, you’ll be notified of new postings. Thanks for your feedback!
This is a crazy story of trust and intention that very much captivated me. Another story that brought me to thoughts of my own life and made me compare situations in my mind with so many people to blame. This is one of those stories that has so many angles, you can really definitively say who the good and bad people are here, and ilike that.
Are there really even any “bad” people?
I heard an audio version of this a couple years ago. Even then I was struck by his seeming hostility and fear about the man’s disability. But I eventually thought it was really the narrator’s own insecurities and inability to connect deeply with people or the world. I thought then it was really an epiphany he had in feeling profound emotion - about beautiful architecture, people and maybe god or spirituality. Now, in thinking about the narrator retrospectively telling the tale I think this even more - that he remains or feigns being dismissive, when in truth he is sharing a deeply moving and impactful experience that is beyond words. Yet still we understand it was incredible - whether he could ever admit or explain it, he shares it and allows us to see the process. That willingness seems an admission, perhaps the only one he is capable of making.
Yes! I think this is all he’s capable of, too. He is limited and he knows it.
When I was reading this story I found myself very interested in what was happening. I also found myself thinking about how rude Bub was not only to Robert, but to his wife as well. He was very blunt, straight forward, judgmental, and close-minded about Robert coming over. As the story progresses, we can begin to notice Bub slightly opening up and becoming aware that he is only the way he is because he doesn't understand things. It isn't until they begin to draw were he becomes truly aware. I completely agree with you about this not being a life-changing moment for Bub, but that it has made him more aware. Despite his negative view towards Robert from the beginning of the story, Robert was able to help him and teach him.
I agree. I don’t know that he’s done a 180, but this has clearly impacted him.
This one was one of my favorites. I liked that for most of the story the narrator was a pessimist because of that dirty realism you spoke about. It felt authentic and I could see people I’ve known in the narrator’s place, not in a good way but a real way. When Robert has him draw the cathedral, he pulls the narrator out of his mundane existence with a simple act. It’s not this grandiose ending but a turning point. I do feel that Bub does change after that moment and it probably wasn’t significant at first, yet it was the very beginning of his journey with a new way of thinking/seeing. The reader was able to witness the beginning of his transformation.
Actually, can I tell you that there some are parts of the narrator (not all!) that I find so funny. I like his dry sarcasm so much. I feel that he changes, too. Why else would he even tell the story if it had no meaning to him?
I remember reading this story many years ago when I first began attending community college. I didn’t really remember much about it until I started reading and digging deeper into the story. One thing that always stood out to me in this story was how rude and disrespectful Bub was to his wife, and this was simply because he didn’t understand certain things. I think this is totally relatable in relationships and marriages nowadays. I think in some situations, spouses/significant others tend to give attitude or get upset with their loved ones when they are frustrated or don’t understand the reasoning behind a situation. This lecture did a pretty great job in explaining the meaning behind the title as well.
Thanks for sharing!
Interesting take Professor Koster’s on the Cathedral, I like how you gave a couple of quotes to better understand the story and the character it was about. I would also have to agree with you, these quotes did better tell the type of person Carver was. I would say that the overconsumption of liquor and weed probably did have some sort of effect on his actions and how the story was told. I didn’t necessarily like the story but I would say I enjoyed trying to understand its overall message.
Thank you for sharing!
This story, as well as the lecture explaining it, made me think of a friend I used to have while growing up. He was home schooled, and was extremely sheltered as a result. His views, attitudes, and perceptions on the world around him were all created by his upbringing. What he read, what he saw on TV, and what his parents told him.
For that reason, I can imagine someone not having met a blind person in their life and I can imagine that person having all sorts of preconceived notions about them. Then, like the story, those notions are shattered once they actually meet a blind person.
It reminds me of how we treat people experiencing homelessness. We have stereotypes in our heads, images of how we think they should look and how they behave. But they are literally just normal people, same as us.
Yes! It’s like “A Very Old Man…”
Thanks for this!
You’re welcome! I hope it helped!
I really enjoyed this story as it shows readers a new perspective on life and human connections. I believe that the drawing in the story is not just a visual representation but a shared experience that strengthens and transforms the meaning of the text. In a way the drawing is a bridge between the blind and those who can see, Robert and the narrator. Also, human connection is a major theme as the story since in the beginning the narrator showed prejudice and discomfort towards Robert, but in the end it all worked out.
Yes, the narrator doesn’t seem to have many shared experiences, despite being a married adult. This is significant to him.
I think this story in particular is relatable to a reader such as myself as I have a hard time finding meaning in a lot of things I am 'disinterested' in or don't know much about. Typically, I will act or behave pessimistically just as the narrator of this story does, which is an unfortunate thing to confess but the hard truth. Thinking of this story reminds me of how easily the actions of another person can influence the rest of our lives, for better or for worse.
Yes, it’s an easy reaction to have when we’re not interested, frustrated with something, etc.
The narrator learns for the first time that looking within can result in a deeper understanding of oneself and more knowledge about life in general when he and Robert sketch an image of a cathedral. The narrator of Cathedral reaches a turning point in the story when he realizes that there are other people's opinions on the world and begins to treat them with more kindness.
Do you think this lesson sticks with him?
I enjoyed reading this story and watching your lecture. I believe that the drawing represents "true sight" to the narrator. He was meant to meet Robert because Robert had so much to teach him, whether he believes it or not. Maybe after this the narrator won't be so judgemental. I do think this is a happy ending.
Me, too!
I selected this story for my analysis of open-ended narratives, and upon reflection, I find that the ending left me somewhat disappointed. Initially, I struggled to fully grasp its conclusion. However, after rereading the text and reviewing your lecture, I now recognize that the clues necessary to understand the ending had been embedded throughout the story. I appreciate when stories challenge me to think critically and engage with the material, but at times, the level of complexity can feel overwhelming. Nevertheless, your lecture was instrumental in guiding me toward the conclusion I had been seeking, and it greatly aided my understanding of the story’s deeper meanings.
For someone who was born into & raised in poor/middle class, I have to say that I can relate to the disassociation. There are times in my life where I feel what's the point of working hard & not gain any sort of recognition? Why bother tearing down my walls to experience a new connection that may not last? I know that is the way of life, but honestly it's exhausting. There's moments where I just don't care, & I am okay with that. Now as for the narrator of the story, I do get annoyed of his wife. It's not like he asked for company to come on over. And if she's so annoyed with her husband why even stay with him in the first place?
I was pretty confused about this story but with your explanation of it, I now understand that the protagonist, Bub, viewed blind people as less than human. That is, until he met Robert and really spoke with him. He realized that much of what he believed was true, eg. blind people can’t smoke, was false, and I think this really helps him to get over what he thinks, and more importantly, to change his thinking. Hopefully, it’ll also result beyond the story with him treating his wife better, rather than being so close-minded and not very nice with her. This was shown with his annoyance about her wanting to have her blind friend, Robert, over for the night. With all of this said, I think the importance is to not go by stereotypes or biases, and to actually learn individuals. For this, you need to keep an open mind.
Absolutely
I have to admit that I had a hard time reading this story because the narrator was so unpleasant. I hope this experience he had with Robert made him a better, more tolerable guy.
That’s understandable! I think Carver hopes that you will be able to appreciate the experience that the narrator has with Robert at the end even more since the narrator is so closed off to practically everything.
I see Bub sort of like a feral cat who doesn't understand the goodness of others because he's never been given a reason to. I think his attitude throughout the story is that of fear. We fear the things we are scared to understand. We may have some negative attitudes towards people who do and harbor jealously. Certainly there was an impact in the end but I don't think this makes him a changed man. Instead it will be a gradual change because a strong foundation has been laid by Robert.
A feral cat. Nice! Haha
The narrator has a very negative perspective that lead to him having a closed off mentality. Being bitter is hardwork because you have to program your brain to be that way and kill any happiness that naturally occurs, it must be exhausting. I hate how he acted towards the blind man because he is incapable of feeling that way and is envious and he knows he is at fault. It seemed at the end he would have a redemption arc but unfortunately he did not and even though under the influences of drugs which sometimes help enlighten people he still stayed stubborn.
There may be some redemption for him, but the effect may not be as strongly felt as we normally see or expect in stories.