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Lack Of Effective Communication In Popular Mechanics By Raymond Carver

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"Popular Mechanics" is a short story written by Raymond Carver, first published in 1981. The story is centered around a couple who are in the process of separating and are locked in a custody battle over their baby. The couple's relationship is marked by anger, bitterness, and a complete lack of effective communication. This is reflected in the following quote, "She held the baby and walked back and forth. She didn't look at him. She looked away, out the window. He took a step toward her and she backed away, still holding the baby" (Carver, 1981, p. 18). The couple's inability to communicate effectively results in a dramatic and emotionally charged conclusion as the baby is taken away from them. The story ends with the couple reflecting on

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