Exploring Karma in Charlie Fish’s "Death By Scrabble"

Karma, the cosmic principle according to which each person's actions in a given life will influence their fate in future lives, plays a central role in the human experience. Charlie Fish's short story, "Death By Scrabble," delves into the intricacies of karma through a riveting narrative centered around a seemingly innocuous game of Scrabble between a husband and wife.

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In this analysis, we will examine the literary devices employed by Fish, such as imagery, foreshadowing, and irony, to unravel the profound theme of karma woven into the fabric of the story.

Imagery: Painting a Vivid Portrait

Imagery serves as a powerful tool in "Death By Scrabble," vividly depicting the heated atmosphere of the Scrabble game and the emotions of the characters. The opening lines provide a glimpse into the setting: "I'm 42 years old, it's a blistering hot Sunday afternoon, and all I can think of to do with my wife is play Scrabble" (page 1). The scorching heat becomes palpable, setting the stage for the intense confrontation between the husband and wife.

The imagery extends beyond the physical environment to capture the emotional tension between the players. As the couple competes against each other, the husband observes his wife's "smug expression as she rearranges her letters. Clack, clack clack" (page 1). This not only portrays the competitive nature of the game but also hints at an underlying discord in their relationship. The meticulous description of the husband's inner turmoil, feeling "a terrible rage build up inside... some inner poison slowly spreading," adds layers to the narrative, making it a rich tapestry of emotions (page 2).

Through the skillful use of imagery, Fish breathes life into the story, allowing readers to visualize the characters' actions and feel the emotional intensity of the game. The Scrabble board becomes a battleground where the husband and wife engage in a silent struggle, each move laden with significance.

Foreshadowing: Unveiling the Threads of Destiny

Foreshadowing emerges as a prominent literary device in "Death By Scrabble," weaving a web of anticipation and inevitability throughout the narrative. The husband's growing disdain for his wife becomes evident early on, foreshadowing a dark turn of events. The subtle suggestion of his desire to be rid of her raises the specter of a more sinister outcome.

An intriguing twist of foreshadowing occurs when the husband realizes that the words played on the Scrabble board manifest in reality. The mention of a fly and the subsequent realization that the words have tangible consequences adds a layer of mystique to the story. "Waiting to fly. Stupid. I opened my eyes, and there's a fly. An insect, buzzing around above the Scrabble board, surfing the thermals from the tepid cup of tea. That proves nothing" (page 4).

The foreshadowing intensifies when the wife strategically plays the word "caution," serving as a warning of impending danger. This subtle yet powerful literary device connects seamlessly with the overarching theme of karma, underscoring the idea that actions have repercussions. The Scrabble board transforms into a canvas where destiny unfolds, and each word becomes a stroke shaping the characters' fates.

Irony: The Tapestry of Fate

Irony, like an invisible thread, weaves through the narrative of "Death By Scrabble," adding complexity to the unfolding drama. The husband's realization that the words on the Scrabble board influence reality introduces a layer of situational irony. "She plays sweatier... I'm getting sweatier" reveals the profound irony in the story as words metamorphose into tangible consequences (page 3).

The pinnacle of irony in the story lies in the husband's desperate attempt to orchestrate his wife's demise through the Scrabble game. Unbeknownst to him, his wife is engaged in the same game, and the ultimate twist of fate is that she emerges victorious. The irony encapsulates the essence of karma—the interconnectedness of actions and their boomerang effect on individuals.

Furthermore, the story introduces a poignant irony through the husband's cousin, Harold, who met an untimely end by choking on a bee. The husband's own demise mirrors this tragic incident, creating a symmetry that resonates with cosmic irony. In attempting to manipulate destiny, the husband becomes ensnared in the very web he sought to weave for his wife.

Conclusion: Karma Unveiled

In conclusion, Charlie Fish masterfully utilizes imagery, foreshadowing, and irony to craft a narrative that transcends the boundaries of a simple Scrabble game. "Death By Scrabble" evolves into a profound exploration of karma, where every word spoken and played holds the power to shape destinies. Through the meticulous use of these literary devices, Fish invites readers to contemplate the intricate interplay between actions and consequences.

The vivid imagery immerses readers in the scorching heat of the moment, while foreshadowing unveils the threads of destiny, foretelling the inescapable impact of the characters' choices. Irony, the tapestry of fate, binds the narrative together, emphasizing the cyclical nature of karma. As readers navigate the twists and turns of the Scrabble game, they are confronted with the universal truth that every action, whether spoken or played, reverberates through the intricate web of karma.

Charlie Fish's "Death By Scrabble" stands as a testament to the power of storytelling, using a seemingly mundane activity to delve into the profound philosophy of karma. In the end, the Scrabble board becomes more than a game—it becomes a metaphor for life, where the choices we make echo across the vast expanse of existence.