In “The Goat in the Math Problem,” what might the area of grass the goat is tethered to represent? I thought I had a pretty good idea toward the beginning of the story, but by the end, it had changed.
The area of grass might represent the space, the boundaries, not only animals, but also humans, are expected to live within. It’s your grass, your playground, you’re free to enjoy it as long as you adhere to the rules of play written on a sign at the entrance, honor the lines mapped in a booklet you are provided with. If you digress, or disregard these, another person or your own conscience will hold a placard to your face, keep you in check. The metaphorical tether of close relationships, moral values, or societal norms stretches only as far as the perimeter or circumference of the grass patch allotted to you, within which you can exercise your freedom, express your emotion, and pursue your happiness.
Read the full interview here.