As short as it is, "The Waltz" offers much room for discussion, in part because of the strength of the narrative voice and the plot reversal.

1. Which of the two voices—external and internal—do you believe and why?

2. How would you characterize the language of the two voices?

3. How would you retell this story from the male partner's point of view?

Remember, he does not know what his female partner is thinking, only what she says and does.

4. How fair or accurate is Parker's portrayal of male-female behavior? Of social convention and rules?

5. Would this story be more or less effective if it were told from a third-person point of view?

6. At one point in the story, the narrator tells herself she loves her dance partner. Should we believe her? Why or why not?

7. Is the male partner the real "villain" in this...