Searching for short story

[Jireh]

Hi. New to the forum. Looks very interesting.

I had a textbook back in college with several classic short stories covering a wide range of years. There was one story I really enjoyed and I can't think of the name of it to save my life.

It was about a girl who answered the door and there was a man standing there trying to talk her into going for a ride. There were all kinds of subtle clues suggesting that maybe this guy was the Devil. I think he wore a black leather jacket. And there was mention that he looked much older than what he was trying to appear to be. The writer also described that he seemed to be having trouble keeping his shoes on straight - as though maybe his feet were actually hooves.

The title may have the word "Demon" in it but I'm not sure.

Has anyone heard of this?

 

[Barnes]

"Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been" by Joyce Carol Oates

 

[Jireh]

Thank You!

Thank you so much! I was beginning to think I dreamed this story up. I can't wait to read this story now and then show it to my wife.

Did you recognize the story immediately? Or did you stumble on it somehow?

Thanks again!

 

[Barnes]

Glad I could help.

I recognized it from the very first line in your description. I read it in a short-story class in college, and it's stuck with me over the years. Very compelling, creepy story. I've always meant to check out Oate's other work--never have.