Hermitix
They Shoot Horses, Don't They? - Horace McCoy (Book Review)
Aug 15, 2023
Reflecting on an image of Gloria getting shot, they introduce the novella 'They Shoot Horses, Don't They?' and discuss its unconventional plot structure. The podcast explores the plot of the book, including Gloria's desire to die and the tragic ending. It examines the murder at the bar during the dance marathon and Gloria's contemplation of a desperate act. The chapter delves into the protagonist's decision to kill the woman he had been dancing with and discusses the immersive storytelling and moral dilemmas in the novel.
25:24
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Quick takeaways
- 'They Shoot Horses, Don't They?' explores the existential absurdity of a dance marathon during the Great Depression, showcasing the deconstruction of human lives and loss of individuality.
- The novella raises existential questions about the value and purpose of life, challenging readers to contemplate the utilitarian and practical nature of existence.
Deep dives
The Existential Absurdity of the Dance Marathon
The novella 'They Shoot Horses, Don't They?' by Horace McCoy explores the existential absurdity of a dance marathon during the Great Depression. The plot follows two naive Hollywood hopefuls, Robert and Gloria, who enter the marathon in hopes of winning the prize money. The dance marathon becomes a metaphor for the arbitrary nature of life and the human struggle to survive. The characters are reduced to mere vessels for the spectacle, belittled and pushed to their physical and emotional limits. McCoy's portrayal of the marathon exposes the deconstruction of human lives and the loss of individuality amidst the relentless movement.
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