In “Two Talented Bastids,” King suggests that talent and, by extension, success and fame rely on luck. Critically examine this assertion, citing specific cultural examples that either prove or disprove it.

Compare and contrast the characters of Frank Jalbert in “Danny Coughlin’s Bad Dream” and Mr. Ludlum in “Finn.” How does their comparison reflect King’s commentary on the pursuit of justice?

Though best known as a writer of speculative fiction, King uses a realism to convey the events of “The Fifth Step,” “Willie the Weirdo, “On Slide Inn Road,” and “Laurie.” Using one or more of these titles, discuss what this use of realism reveals about the author’s worldview.