Brain Pain discussion

This discussion covers The Reverend Jethro Furber’s Change of Heart, Parts 6-12, pp. 222-304, Afterword, pp. 305-315, and our Conclusions about the Book as a Whole

As Reverend Jethro’s heart continues to change, we leave the inner world of his mind and the narrative shifts to a more neutral point of view. Omensetter asks Furber for help after he finally finds Henry Pimber’s hidden perch. The men of the town bring Henry’s body back, but not without much struggle and injury. The doctor finally arrives but Omensetter’s luck may have run out for his son Amos.

William Gass added an Afterword to his novel, detailing the history of the original manuscript. What purpose might this added story serve for the novel? Is Gass trying to compensate for his very brief wrap-up of the novel? Is he spitting out some sour grapes at the man who stole his manuscript? Or is something else going on?

Overall, what did you think about the technique of shifting perspectives that Gass used to tell his tale of small town jealousy and intrigue? What did you think about Jethro once he was seen through the eyes and commentary of the other characters? What did you think about Omensetter once his wife confronted him about Henry Pimber, their sick baby, and his reliance on "luck"?