One theme of “Gumption” is that people tend to lose hope in difficult times.

Question

One theme of “Gumption” is that people tend to lose hope in difficult times.

How does Sylvester help to develop this theme?

Responses

He damages his relationship with his wife by treating her with disrespect.

He damages his relationship with his wife by treating her with disrespect.

He spends more time living in the past than thinking about the present.

He spends more time living in the past than thinking about the present.

He makes fun of those around him instead of supporting his family.

He makes fun of those around him instead of supporting his family.

He chooses to do nothing rather than face continued rejection.

He chooses to do nothing rather than face continued rejection.

Answer 1

All the responses provided are valid examples of how Sylvester helps to develop the theme of losing hope in difficult times. Each of these actions shows how Sylvester's behavior reflects a lack of hope and optimism. Whether it is damaging his relationship with his wife, living in the past, making fun of others, or choosing to do nothing, Sylvester's actions display a sense of defeat and a lack of belief in a brighter future. By highlighting these negative behaviors, the story reinforces the theme that people tend to lose hope in difficult times.