Cathy here!
I found it
interesting that the title of this story has a few different connotations: the
relief of flatulence and relief as an emotion. These are exemplified in Wilby’s
relief of his flatulence, his relief when he is no longer embarrassed in a
social setting with his superiors, and Chard’s long-winded explanation about
how “[relieved he is] to be alive, [learn] some truth about [himself]” and
learn that he “[possesses]…courage” (p. 124). Through these different
connotations, the significance of the title is evident throughout the story.
I was also interested to see how Wilby’s flatulence would contribute to the story beyond being an opportunity for humour. It showcases and contrasts Bromheard and Chard’s personalities; compared to Chard who “[believes] in telling a tale correctly” (p. 125) to paint himself as heroic, Bromheard is reluctant to boast, but rises to the occasion (that is, the act of recounting experiences in great detail) when it comes to saving Wilby from embarrassment. The reader can subsequently infer that Chard is obsessed with personal glory and embellishing his own achievements, while Bromheard is a more selfless character. It is also the root from which military bonding stems – the major “[sidles] up to Wilby and Ferguson” (p. 128) after dinner to tell them about his own experiences with flatulence. Finally, it simply serves as an unconventional, humorous way to start the story and draw the reader in.
I was also interested to see how Wilby’s flatulence would contribute to the story beyond being an opportunity for humour. It showcases and contrasts Bromheard and Chard’s personalities; compared to Chard who “[believes] in telling a tale correctly” (p. 125) to paint himself as heroic, Bromheard is reluctant to boast, but rises to the occasion (that is, the act of recounting experiences in great detail) when it comes to saving Wilby from embarrassment. The reader can subsequently infer that Chard is obsessed with personal glory and embellishing his own achievements, while Bromheard is a more selfless character. It is also the root from which military bonding stems – the major “[sidles] up to Wilby and Ferguson” (p. 128) after dinner to tell them about his own experiences with flatulence. Finally, it simply serves as an unconventional, humorous way to start the story and draw the reader in.
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