Summary

The short story “The Knife Thrower” by Steven Millhauser opens with an introduction which reveals some people’s opinions about a knife thrower, Hensch, who will arrive in town for a performance. The reaction is a mix of excitement and disapproval, as Hensch’s methods are controversial. 

The story skips to Hensch arriving in town for the performance. It begins with Hensch throwing knives at hoops thrown by his young female assistant, nailing them to a black wooden partition. The audience admires Hensch’s skill but also feels disappointed that the act is tame compared to his reputation. The next act involves Hensch pinning a live butterfly to the partition. Then Hensch throws a series of knives to land between his fingers on a tabletop, creating the illusion that ...