Ballad of the Sad Cafe and Other Stories Competition Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Story.Paragraph)

Quote #4

So the fight went on in this wild violent way with no sign of weakening on either side. (Ballad.212)

The word "wild" here brings to mind animals that fight on instinct, not reason.

Quote #5

Marvin Macy was greased and slippery, tricky to grasp, but she was stronger. (Ballad.214)

Though no one in the story says so, it seems like Mr. Macy greasing up his body might be just another trademark cheater move. They say there's nothing harder to catch than a greased pig.

Quote #6

So many times she wished she had not been born and brought up in just Cincinnati. How do you say cheese in German? Mister Bilderbach, what is Dutch for I don't understand you? (Wunderkind.34)

Frances seems to be blaming her less-ness on the Midwest. Fair? Circle yes or no... and we'll know whether you're from one of the coasts.