The lottery is a game of chance in which numbered tickets are drawn for a prize. Historically, it has also been used as a method of raising funds for public purposes. In the United States, state governments use it to supplement their income and raise money for education and other public programs. It is also a popular way to fund sports team drafts and other events that do not generate enough revenue from regular taxes. However, many critics argue that lotteries encourage gambling addiction, particularly in low-income communities.
In the story, Tessie Hutchinson is the narrator of The Lottery and a character who questions the tradition and authority of Puritan New England. Her name is an allusion to Anne Hutchinson, a religious dissenter who was excommunicated in 1638 for her Antinomian beliefs.
The story draws parallels between winning the lottery and finding true happiness in life, tapping into the aspirational desires of readers. It also evokes FOMO, the fear of missing out on an opportunity to drastically improve one’s circumstances, by depicting lottery winners as fulfilled and happy individuals. The prize money is constantly being advertised, both on the radio and billboards, making it feel like a minimal investment with a potentially massive return. Moreover, when the prize amounts reach double- and triple-digit millions of dollars, the frequency of promotional messaging increases. This, in turn, makes the jackpot seem more accessible to consumers by lowering the perceived risk and magnifying the reward.