1. Are there any prominent symbols in the story? If so, what are they and how are they used?
The story does seem to make use of certain prominent symbols. For instance, the itemized list itself seems to be a symbol of his victory over the wits of Nebula and every other hero that tried to go against him, it was more of a mockery rather than an apology. His constant mention and glorification of the Martians seemed to symbolize his belief that his was a different kind of genius which mere earthly mortals were incapable of appreciating.
2. What connections did you make with the story? Discuss the elements of the work with which you were able to connect.
The whole idea of a secret identity in general. I often wonder about how no matter how close we get to a person, there is always a part of them that remains hidden. Of course, it is never something quite as dramatic. But what if it was? What if, in those empty spaces of time that usually go unaccounted for in general conversations, one of your close friends was planning world domination? Highly unlikely, but an interesting idea to think about nonetheless.
3. What changes would you make to adapt this story into another medium? What medium would you use? What changes would you make?
I would love to see this story adapted to a sort of bizarre and dark psychological tale, wherein this under-appreciated researcher builds an alternative reality in his mind when his ideal relationship with this perfect girl hits a rough patch. It could be a more realistic graphic novel which is kind of ambiguous about the protagonist's perceived reality and actual reality and questions the idea of reality in general.
