In "Straight Man" by Richard Russo, the narrative humorously portrays the unexpected events at a university, highlighting how the characters are ill-equipped for bizarre situations. The description of a senior professor taking on a ludicrous disguise while holding a frightened goose underscores the absurdity of academic life and the unpredictable nature of human behavior. Such moments reflect a lack of imagination among the faculty, revealing their struggles to adapt to unconventional circumstances.

Russo's comedic style illustrates not only the characters' limitations but also the unpredictable chaos that can arise in academic settings. The image of a tenured professor caught in such a ridiculous scenario serves as a metaphor for the often serious, yet absurd, realities of higher education. The scene reflects the tension between the mundane aspects of academia and the surreal challenges that can disrupt everyday routines.