(147) . Nevertheless, the misfit kills the entire family.In Good Country People, a second story by OConnor, another family mistakes a trusted stranger and this too, gives the story an ironic twist. To illustrate, Mrs. Hopewell is a positive thinker and the divorced mother of her daughter, Joy, who has since changed her name to Hulga. For instance, some of her favorite sayings are Nothing is perfect, that was life, and well, people have opinions too. However, her daughter Hulga is nothing like her. In addition, Hulga is a stout thirty-two year old Atheus woman with a heart condition and who also has a Ph.D. in Philosophy. Furthermore, at the age of ten, Hulga loses her leg in a hunting accident. For this reason, she possesses no drive. All day Joy sat on her neck in a deep chair, reading (268).Ironically, the story Good Country People, takes a twist when a stranger interrupts the lives of Mrs. Hope well and specifically the life of Hulga. For instance, Manley Pointer, introduce himself as a friendly Bible sales man, but hides his liquor, cards of naked women, and condoms in his Bible case. After spending sometime with Hulga and using his manly charm, Pointer asks her, Couldnt we go on a picnic tomorrow ? Say yes, Hulga (276). Now as an existentialist, Hulga does not appreciate nature as it exists. She looked at nice young men as if she could smell their stupidity (268). On the contrary, Hulga does meet Pointer for a picnic and finally she reveals, I dont even believe in God (277). Further, she explains, I am saved and you are damned but I dont believe in god (278). Soon, Pointer pulls her close and plants a heavy kiss, which turns out to be her first kiss ever. Similarly, before deciding to meet Pointer, Hulga has a seductive dream about the two of them together. Well, this dream comes close to reality when Pointer seduces her, but the difference is that he humiliates her by running away with her wooden leg and leaving...
