Blog Question #7:

What makes a particular short story a classic?  Why does a story stand the "test of time?"  I think the answer lies in a number of reasons.  First, I believe that a short story must have an enduring theme, human and subjective.  The theme should touch not only the mind, but especially the heart of the reader.  In "Cathedral" by Raymond Carver, its theme of "Dislocation versus Location" is explored using its three main characters:  Husband (first-person narrator), Wife, and Robert (blind guest).  Carver twists the usual perceptions and brings us into the marriage of two nameless, "sightless" wandering characters that are brought finally into location (at least momentarily) by the "sighted" blind man.  Carver makes us feel for these two dislocated people. They wound our own selves because they bring back images of our own dislocation memories.  The story touches our souls with its theme.

Second, I believe a classic story must be written with well-chosen words that stand with purpose on the page.  The author's "voice" must be present in the piece, no matter what perspective point of view is chosen.  The author must present his/her theme with power and skill.  Carver paints his characters with a brush of understanding and compassion. without "letting them off the hook."  His deft strokes allow the reader to almost touch, smell, and visualize the characters.
The reader feels present in the story.