Question

Justify the title "The shady plot"

Answer 1

The name of the story is ‘A Shady Plot’. The word ‘shady’ here means ‘quiet, dark, or concealed; hidden’. The word ‘plot’ here means ‘storyline- the plan, scheme, or main story of a literary or dramatic work, as a play, novel, or short story’. The story deals about author’s unintentional involvement with the ghost ‘Helen’, who was the source behind all the plots of his spooky stories. Since the plot of the story is about author’s secret involvement with the ghost, Helen, which his wife comes to know about a little at the end. The entire plot of the story has a ghostly (shady) element. So the title ’A Shady (ghostly) Plot (story) is aptly justified.

Answer 2

He needs a plot, a storyline and the inspiration is hidden. As the events unfold, the readers realize that
the ghosts have been providing him with ideas and plotlines. The story then moves forward to a point
where the writer’s wife suspects him of having an affair with a lady. The story reaches its finale when
Lavinia comes face to face with the ghost (the lady) and maintains her composure. The plot of the story
is riveting and has unexpected twists and turns. The author surprises the reader a number of times and
much humour arises out of the situations. Because of the shady nature of the plot, the story manages to
hold the interest of the reader.
The title of the story is quite apt and compliments the story beautifully. It does not reveal the plot or
give an indication but helps the author to keep the surprise element. It also directs the reader’s
expectation in a positive manner.
I hope it will help you