Italian Folktale. A dying king is told that his only hope for a cure is a magical feather from a feared ogre known to kill any human it sees. When no one else volunteers to face the creature, one of his most loyal and courageous attendants steps forward.
Short Story by Ann Beattie. A troubled couple who, having travelled each year to visit a friend and his brother on his birthday, make the trip once more on the birthday following his death. Although each needs closure, they suppress their feelings and do not even discuss the dead man.
Short story by Dorothy Parker. As a couple travel to their honeymoon destination, the bride finds fault with several things her new husband says. This is partly to seek affirmation of his love, and partly to deflect thoughts of what they both know will happen that evening.
Short Story by Sherman Alexie. A Native-American boy recalls the good and not-so-good times before his father rode off on his motorcycle, never to be seen again. The boy’s father had difficulty opening up and music, especially the titular song, was an important catalyst for communication between them.
Short Story by Ursula Le Guin. A philosophical narrative describing life in the seemingly utopian city of Omelas. We learn that (almost!) everyone in the city lives in complete happiness. There is no organized system of rule, few laws, sexual freedom, no crime, no violence, and nobody living in want.