Power of Metaphor

 This week we are talking about the two short stories: "The Ones Who Walk Away From Omelas" and "The Lottery." As I mentioned in my lecture, both of these stories are allegorical. An allegory is a story in which the settings, characters, and actions are symbolic, and in this case they represent aspects of our own society. 

So my first question is, what are the allegorical meanings behind these stories? For example, what can the lottery in Jackson's short story be compared to? Are there any laws and statutes in the United States that serve no practical purpose and harm the innocent? Also, can you compare the little child in the basement of Ursula K. LeGuin's story to anyone in our soiciety? That is, is there any one or any group that is oppressed and marginalized in order that our high standard of living can be maintained?