It isn't outlined. There are some interesting theories cropping up based on the short story.
Possible reasons the tradition started: 1) Human sacrifice for thanks and continued blessings upon the town. 2) Scapegoat for sins committed by the community. 3) Keeping the "small" in "small town." 4) A measure of control. 5) A reminder of mortality. 6) Getting all their evil out in one day. 7) Extermination of a bitchy spouse. 8) Target practice.
I think part of the premise is to leave us to wonder why such senseless killing is deemed "necessary" in the world at large. I think the story was written as a starting point and was meant to fuel domestic or international discussion to some degree. The town seems so "average, right and moral" yet they engage in this horrific practice. I see this as simply a metaphor for the world we live in, and the story seems as relevant (or more so) today than ever before.
Re: The ritual - why is it tradition?
Possible reasons the tradition started:
1) Human sacrifice for thanks and continued blessings upon the town.
2) Scapegoat for sins committed by the community.
3) Keeping the "small" in "small town."
4) A measure of control.
5) A reminder of mortality.
6) Getting all their evil out in one day.
7) Extermination of a bitchy spouse.
8) Target practice.
I think part of the premise is to leave us to wonder why such senseless killing is deemed "necessary" in the world at large. I think the story was written as a starting point and was meant to fuel domestic or international discussion to some degree. The town seems so "average, right and moral" yet they engage in this horrific practice.
I see this as simply a metaphor for the world we live in, and the story seems as relevant (or more so) today than ever before.
Karina Black//Ravenclaw