There are many allusions to classical literature woven throughout the novel. What do you think this suggests about the nature of storytelling?

From the title of the novel, to Sadie's invocation of Emily Dickinson, to Marx's epithet, "Tamer of Horses," to Master of the Revels, there are many allusions to classical literature woven throughout the novel. What do you think this suggests about the nature of storytelling—how many ways can the same stories, emotions, and experiences be reinvented? In your opinion, does the team believe they can create and are creating something new in their work, or are they finding new ways of expressing universal themes?

That there are certain elements of storytelling that exist across platforms and time, and that the same story themes can be presented in many different ways. The themes they presented were universal and enduring; their mechanisms were new and creative.

As a superfan of Emily Dickinson, the references to her poetry pulled me in even further to this really clever book. Shakespeare is not my favorite, but I felt smarter for having gotten the references--ha! "Tamer of horses" and how the reference changed meaning throughout the novel was especially appealing.

I enjoyed the references to literature throughout this book. I think it serves to reinforce that a good story is enjoyable whether it is presented as a poem, a play or a video game.

The book title is clearly a reference to Shakespeare and demonstrates the notion of first chances, second chances and also the fear that time is running out. I think it was perfect for this book.

I really enjoyed all the literature jewels the author used to make different points in the characters storylines. Starting with the title “Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow,” a MacBeth quote in which the author twist the quoted meaning to be more positive meaning of always having the option to start over in life, to the Emily Dickinson reference “That Love is All There Is” that addresses the mysterious of love and friendship to the famous quote about Hector from the Iliad “The Tamer of Horses” showcading Marx’s positive outlook on life showing you do not necessarily need to be famous to have a meaningful life, the quotes all brought together the different themes to tell a story about surviving life. Dickinsons Poems, Honers Greek mythology and Shakespeare many plays all contributed to the universal themes of surviving trauma, professional and personal success and love and friendship to help tell the story of three friends set in the gaming world.

I loved the way the author wove literary allusions and quotes into the book--it was witty and always well integrated into the plot.
As for the nature of storytelling, the classic themes are at work both in literature and in games.
The hero's quest as a theme certainly comes to mind first, then finding a friend or life partner, finding meaning in one's life--these themes and more are evoked in the book's plot and echoed in the literary references.

The one exception for me initially was the title itself. I was not drawn to the title at first and several times resisted reading the book because of the title. It seemed too self consciously Shakespearean to me. Then I finally read the book and realized that the title worked beautifully as a metaphor first for gaming itself and secondly as a description of life itself, beyond the obvious Shakespearean reference.

The written word and coding, literature and video games, art and technology - the author has intertwined them so that they do not seem to be opposed to one another but complementary.

The substance of storytelling is the same whatever the means or mode. Storytelling is a universal need for humans and we keep inventing new ways to do that - art, writing, games of all kinds. Zevin’s use of allusion points out that universality.

I absolutely loved the way classic literature is woven into the story bringing it into the current world, and the world of gaming.

When I am reading and encounter literary allusions, I am also more engaged with the story than previously. I like finding those jewels and recognizing them. They add to the story for me.

A good story has essential elements whether presented in the form of a book or a video game. The references to classic literature served as a way to remind the reader that story telling can take many forms. The inclusion of literary allusions and quotes from classical literature also was helped connect people unfamiliar with video games to the story.

I don't have a foundation in the classics but am able to recognize the timelessness of different themes and allegories set forth throughout the book.