King sets the story in 1963 when a number of significant historical shifts took place, some of which are emphasized by the radio on the flower vendor’s cart. Research important occurrences from 1963 and explain how the young man mirrors the turbulence of the time.

The short story is told from the perspective of a third-person omniscient narrator. How would the piece have been impacted had it been told in first person, through the eyes of the young man? Would it still be a thriller that exposes a serial killer? Why? How would the themes have been impacted?

The Four Seasons’ “Sherry” plays in the background after the young man purchases flowers and resumes his journey. Look up the lyrics for the song and consider the name of the band. Why might King have alluded to this particular song? Cite textual examples from both the song and the short story to support your claim.