Is the Lottery Creating Addiction Problems?

A lottery is a form of gambling in which numbers are drawn at random for a prize. While some governments outlaw the practice, others endorse it and organize state or national lotteries. A large percentage of lottery revenue comes from a small group of regular players who use the lottery to try to win big. This reliance on super users is raising concerns that the lottery may be creating addiction problems.

The story begins with the bucolic setting of an unnamed small town in which the yearly lottery is to be held. As the narrator watches, children who have recently been on summer break begin to assemble in the square. Adults soon follow. They exhibit the stereotypically warm and relaxed small-town behavior, greeting each other and chatting.

As a hush settles over the square, Mr. Summers, who is the organizer of this year’s lottery, takes center stage. He holds up a black box, which he says is an older version of the original lottery paraphernalia that has been lost over time. The villagers recognize and respect the sense of tradition conferred on this box.

As the names are called, the heads of families approach the box to draw a paper slip. The narrator notes that little Dave’s and Nancy’s papers are blank; Bill’s contains a black spot; and the mute Tessie’s bears a black mark as well. A general sigh is let out as each family member discovers their fate.