Step-by-step explanation:
The two short stories "Popular Mechanics" and "What We Talk About When We Talk About Love" by Raymond Carver explore different aspects of love, life, and relationships, but both present complex and often ambiguous views on these themes.
In "Popular Mechanics," the relationship between a man and a woman is depicted in a highly fragmented and dysfunctional way. The story begins with the couple arguing over the custody of their baby, and their disagreement quickly escalates into a physical struggle. As the story progresses, the tension between the couple only intensifies, and they eventually tear the baby apart in a brutal tug-of-war. The story ends with the couple sitting in opposite corners of the room, each holding a piece of the baby and silently weeping.
This story presents a bleak view of love and relationships, suggesting that even the most intimate bonds between people can be destroyed by anger, resentment, and selfishness. The story also raises questions about the nature of parenthood and the responsibilities that come with it.
In contrast, "What We Talk About When We Talk About Love" presents a more nuanced view of love and relationships. The story centers around two couples who are drinking and talking about love, sharing their personal experiences and perspectives on the subject. As the conversation unfolds, the characters reveal their own struggles with love, including jealousy, insecurity, and heartbreak.
Through these characters, Carver explores the complexity of love and the many different forms it can take. The story suggests that love is not a simple or straightforward emotion, but rather a multifaceted experience that can be both joyful and painful, fulfilling and disappointing. The story also raises questions about the nature of communication and the difficulties of truly understanding another person's experiences and emotions.
Overall, both stories present complex and often conflicting views on love, life, and relationships. "Popular Mechanics" portrays a dark and violent vision of human connection, while "What We Talk About When We Talk About Love" offers a more nuanced and introspective exploration of the complexities of love and relationships.