I was wondering if someone could help me find information on the short story "Died and Gone to Vegas" by Tim Gautreaux. I read the story but didn't understand it to well. I was just wondering what the theme is. I tried to look it up but I cannot find any useful info.

While I'm looking for information, ask yourself this: What is the "secret message" the author wants you to get by the time you finished reading this story?

Here's the story:

http://www.theatlantic.com/past/docs/unbound/factfict/gautreau/gautre1.htm

Interviews and analysis:
http://muse.jhu.edu/login?uri=/journals/southern_literary_journal/v038/38.1piacentino.html
and
http://www.jstor.org/pss/20134801 (partial, but may have something interesting)
and
http://books.google.com/books?id=bQKTtmfvBLUC&pg=PA3&lpg=PA3&dq=%22Died+and+Gone+to+Vegas%22+by+Tim+Gautreaux&source=bl&ots=cknTpWf0KW&sig=TZLvjDchSeMK9P8m2wlT8xKNHqI&hl=en&ei=K6CnTbr4FpTGsAOG35n5DA&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=9&ved=0CE4Q6AEwCA#v=onepage&q=%22Died%20and%20Gone%20to%20Vegas%22%20by%20Tim%20Gautreaux&f=false

Let us know what you think.

thank you!!

You're welcome!

=)

so this story is basically about southern humor and story telling correct?

I haven't read the story, but that's what I got from the books.google link and the jhu.edu link, yes.

ok thank you again!!

WOW! AN FREEE BOOK YIPEE

Of course, I'm here to help! "Died and Gone to Vegas" is a short story by Tim Gautreaux, but please note that it's possible that this story might not be widely discussed or analyzed in detail online. However, I can guide you on how to determine the theme yourself, even without external sources.

To identify the theme, it is essential to analyze the story's main ideas, characters, and events. Here's a step-by-step approach you can follow:

1. Read the story again: Before identifying the theme, it can be helpful to revisit the story to refresh your memory and gain a deeper understanding.

2. Identify the main characters: Take note of the main characters and their characteristics, as their experiences and actions often contribute to the story's theme.

3. Determine the central conflict: Consider the primary problem or conflict faced by the characters. This conflict often sheds light on the story's underlying message.

4. Analyze events and symbolism: Pay attention to significant events, symbols, and motifs in the story. Look for recurring symbols or imagery that might provide clues about the theme.

5. Consider the author's intent: Reflect on the author's purpose in writing the story. What might Tim Gautreaux be trying to convey through "Died and Gone to Vegas"? Think about the story's context, setting, and the larger social or cultural issues it addresses.

6. Extract the underlying message: Based on your analysis, try to identify the story's theme. It could be a universal idea, a moral lesson, or a commentary on a specific aspect of life.

Remember, the theme is the story's underlying message or insight into human nature or society. It may not always have a straightforward answer but might be open to interpretation.

Good luck, and I hope this process helps you gain a better understanding of the theme in "Died and Gone to Vegas"!